This presentation will share findings from Student Life Research’s qualitative assessment of ecological validation among U-M undergraduate students. Based on structured interviews with 37 students, the study explores how students’ identities, relationships, and campus environments shape their sense of belonging, academic persistence, and overall success. Participants described identities that extend beyond institutional demographic categories, including family roles, first-generation status, sexuality, religion, disability, socioeconomic background, immigrant experiences, and personality traits. Findings highlight the central role of peers, family, student organizations, instructors, advisors, cohort programs, and Student Life staff in affirming, and sometimes limiting, students’ experiences. Attendees will learn how identity- and strengths-based connections foster belonging, while barriers such as bias, unclear navigation, inconsistent support, and siloed campus systems can undermine validation. The session will include recommendations for integrating validating practices that strengthen a campus culture where all students can thrive.
