Reflections on Identity Exploration in the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic from Queer Students of Color

Abstract: The context of the COVID-19 global pandemic has shaped all aspects of modern life, creating a unique circumstance for minoritized groups as they have explored important questions related to the self. Specifically, scholars, practitioners, and policymakers have expressed interest in understanding how the COVID-19 pandemic affected minoritized groups, including queer people and queer people of color, specifically. This study used data from a longitudinal constructivist grounded theory project following queer students of color within and beyond their time in college to examine how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced the process of identity exploration for these individuals. Findings revealed that queer students of color engaged in self-reflection about identities because of the isolation, reexamined navigating relationships at home and within educational institutions, and sought connections and guidance through online spaces. Informed by the study findings, the manuscript provides implications for future research and practice in higher education and student affairs.