Post-secondary vocational education (PSVE) is a viable pathway to financial and professional stability for systems-involved youth, yet the social and structural supports necessary for persistence in these pathways remain understudied. This qualitative study investigates how young adults with histories of child welfare, juvenile justice, or mental health systems involvement navigated their educational trajectories. We conducted initial interviews with 16 young adults and follow-up interviews with 13 more. Drawing on social capital and social network theories, we examined how support systems evolve, focusing on continued, discontinued, and newly formed supports. Findings indicate that persistent, multifaceted support networks are vital to educational continuity, especially in the context of challenges within systems of care and educational institutions. The study highlights the need for flexible support infrastructure that provides sustained guidance and resources to promote post-secondary education and career success.
Mohanty et al. (Thu,) studied this question.