Organization, Information and Learning Sciences ETDs
Publication Date
Summer 7-30-2022
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This qualitative emergent study investigated the identity transformation experiences of enlisted combat student veterans (ECSVs) from warriors into scholars at the University of New Mexico (UNM). ECSVs are a sub-population of the student veteran community who served in military combat jobs and thus underwent a military indoctrination process that inculcated a warrior identity in them. When ECSVs bring the warrior identity with them to campus, it may conflict with the scholar identity, causing them to struggle to assimilate into the university environment. The study used semi-structured individual interviews and a focus group for data collection and open, thematic, and values coding for the analysis. It yielded several themes: UNM as a transformative space, identity acquisition as a ceremonial process, the importance of imposter syndrome, help-seeking, socializing, and indoctrination vigilance. The study calls for both ECSVs and the university to engage transformative learning processes to support their journey to become scholars.
Degree Name
Organization, Information and Learning Sciences
Level of Degree
Doctoral
Department Name
Organization, Information & Learning Sciences
First Committee Member (Chair)
Dr. Frances C. Wilkinson
Second Committee Member
Dr. Mark Emmons
Third Committee Member
Dr. Aeron Haynie
Fourth Committee Member
Dr. Finnie Coleman
Language
English
Keywords
Enlisted combat student veterans, identity transformation, military, scholars, university, and warrior.
Document Type
Dissertation
Recommended Citation
Calderon, Eliberto Trevizo. "The Warrior to Scholar Identity Transformation." (2022). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/oils_etds/64
