Thesis
Adolescent socialization of careers within arts administration for students of African and/or Latin descent
Master of Science (M.S.), Drexel University
Jan 2021
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00000535
Abstract
This thesis addresses the lack of diversity within the arts administration professional pipeline by analyzing methods of adolescent Vocational Anticipatory Socialization utilized in the campaign for increased diversity within the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) industries. Levels of opportunity, access, and exposure to the field of arts administration for students and current professionals of African and/or Latin descent were studied to understand how early exposure to the sector can increase the presence of Black and Brown professionals entering the arts workforce over time. This qualitative study was developed from the analysis of existing literature on diversity in the arts, diversity in STEM, and research on the ways in which individuals learn about and develop educational and career interests during adolescence. In addition to these sources, primary research was conducted to better understand the influences, interests and experiences of both students and arts administrators of African and/or Latin descent. Through a series of interviews and surveys, common themes of societal and familial messaging, perceived racial barriers and a lack of exposure and access proved to be significant factors for Black and Brown students pursuing a career in arts administration. Students that were exposed to experiences within the field of arts administration in high school were more likely to pursue a profession in the sector as well as more likely to support and advocate for the arts in adulthood. A case study was also conducted on the efficiency and impact of the Bloomberg Arts Internship, a high school arts administration internship program facilitated through the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance that provides paid work experience to rising seniors. The findings of this study revealed that the exposure of first-hand work experience to high school students was imperative to their perception of professional success particularly in sectors of low visibility for communities of color. Additionally, the data collected highlighted the messaging received by Black and Brown students during adolescence from family, peers, educators and media that shape perceptions of reality that subsequently impact their professional pursuits.
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Details
- Title
- Adolescent socialization of careers within arts administration for students of African and/or Latin descent
- Creators
- Kandra Blanchard Bolden
- Contributors
- Pamela Yau (Advisor)Neville Vakharia (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- vii, 70 pages
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- Arts Administration; Arts and Entertainment Enterprise; Drexel University; Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts and Design
- Other Identifier
- 991014866249304721