Abstract
This thesis explores the development of the multiracial identity in young adults ages 18 to 23, and how the university environment impacts this process. In it, I ask: What role does a predominantly White university environment play in the development of a multiracial identity and the overall sense of self? What patterns of experience exist amongst this population? And how does the presence of varying intersectional identities impact this journey? Data was gathered through interviews with 22 college students who self-identified as multiracial. The research brings to light the blurred relationship between race and ethnicity in the American context. It was also determined that there was a clear contrast in the ways in which subjects see themselves as a multiracial individual and the ways others perceive them, a disparity which creates an internal identity conflict around belonging in racial communities and a barrier to understanding the self. Overall, this study speaks about the racialized nature of higher learning, and points to a much larger, societal issue about how Americans are socialized not to engage with multiple racial identities at once. Ultimately, it was determined that the college environment provides tools that allow multiracial students the opportunity to situate themselves both in their campus community and in American society.