This qualitative study explored the challenges that Hispanic and African American students experience during their education in STEM fields at community colleges. Students from four community colleges across Texas participated in this study. Drawing from focus group interviews, three themes were identified as self-perceived challenges to degree completion: (1) Conflicting experiences between family and student; (2) lack of focused school time and conflicting commitments; and (3) lack of knowledge of future STEM opportunities. Additionally, these underrepresented STEM students highlighted the perceived supports needed to be successful in continuing their education. Implications for practice and policy highlight strategies that might promote underrepresented student success and retention in STEM disciplines.