BLACKBIRDS: AFRICAN-AMERICAN IDENTITY AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT, A DOCUMENTARY FILM

This film explores the lived experience of two African-American male undergraduate students at Illinois State University; one performing well academically, the other academically challenged. This documentary follows the two participants over the Fall 2015 semester, examining how their status within the African-American community on campus influences their academic success. The juxtaposition of the two student experiences explores the impact of African- American social identity’s effect on academic performance. The film also includes expert interviews and participant reflection on mentorship, pre-college preparation, and belonging.