The Struggle is Real! (A slang term used in the Black Community). Everyone has a story. Everyone has a journey, regardless of race, color, or creed. However, what research and lived experiences of African American women such as myself reveals is that "the struggle" is different for African American women and we encounter more barriers to accomplish any goal. In this dissertation "the struggle" of the African American woman in higher education and how the transitions from elementary, secondary, and postsecondary institutions play a role in the success or failure of completing high school and earning a college degree is presented. College is not impossible to accomplish; one just needs the confidence, and to surround oneself with supportive family, friends, and educators. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]