The Educational Experiences of Formerly Incarcerated Students at Ball State University: A Case Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify possible problems and successes that formerly incarcerated felons, who are now Ball State University students, may encounter while pursuing their degree. Recruitment fliers were distributed on campus and ―snowball sampling‘ was used. Three (3) current and two (2) former students completed short interviews consisting of 11 questions. The participants all reported having been incarcerated, in prison, at some time. Some of the problems reported were: communication with other students, and faculty and staff, financial issues, and family concerns. To address these issues, the university may try to provide information that will better inform these individuals about the unique problems which they are likely to face. A specialized counselor or a web-page of information and referral options would benefit these students.