Examining the Effects of Campus Climate,Ethnic Group Cohesion,and Cross-Cultural Interaction on Filipino American Students' Sense of Belonging in College

The purpose of this study is to explore how campus climate, ethnic group cohesion and cross cultural interaction influence Filipino American college students' sense of belonging in college. Specifically, we examine the impact of three environmental and behavioral factors on students' sense of belonging: 1) campus racial climate, 2) ethnic group cohesion, and 3) interactions across cultures. A sample of 143 participants was analyzed using structural equation modeling techniques. Findings suggest that campus racial climate, ethnic group cohesion, and cross-cultural interaction all directly influence sense of belonging among Filipino American students. In addition, ethnic group cohesion was indirectly and positively associated with sense of belonging on campus via its direct influence on cross-cultural interactions. Implications for research and practice are discussed.