Supporting the Academic Aspirations of Indigenous College Students Through Youth Camps: Qualitative Evidences From the Philippines
Arlan E. Dela Cruz

Abstract
Indigenous Students, By Comparison To Nonindigenous Students In The Same Countries, Are Suffering From Lower Enrolment Rates, Higher Dropout Rates And Poorer Educational Outcomes On A Global Scale. As A Response, In 2015, A Higher Education Institution Located In Central Luzon, Philippines Extended Support To The Indigenous Youth Pursuing College Studies Through Providing Youth Camp Program. This Qualitative Descriptive Study Evaluated The Extent Bywhich Indigenous Youth Camp Program Experience Has Supported The Academic Goals Of The Indigenous Aeta Camp Participants As Well As Contributed To Their Overall Well-Being. Thematic Analysis Results Revealed Three Major Findings: A. Space For Being True And Being Different B. An Opportunity To Aim Higher Despite The Odds C.A Place Where We Do Things Together.The Study Recommended Considering The Emotional, Socio-Cultural And Psychological Dimensions Of Well-Being When Crafting Youth Camp Activities To Maximize Indigenous Youth’s Engagement. Creating More Democratic Spaces Like Youth Camps For Indigenous Youth Are Helpful In Achieving Their Academic Aspirations, Develop Social Skills And Lessens Feelings Of Discrimination.

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