Event Title
First Generation Students Sense of Belonging in Higher Education
Start Date
4-8-2021 3:30 PM
End Date
4-8-2021 4:00 PM
Abstract
The purpose of this poster presentation is to highlight the struggles faced by first-generation college students at their institution and identify where this support is needed. This poster presentation identifies the multiple learning curves and obstacles experienced by first-generation college students towards degree completion. It is recognized that first-generation college students and their paths through higher education are notably different compared to their continuing generation peers. The identity revolved around being a first-generation college student starts with the relationship with their family because they are the first in their family to obtain a bachelor's degree. With the appropriate support given to these students, they can overcome barriers like the hidden curriculum; while also becoming confident in maintaining strong academic connections with professors and balancing individuality with cultural identity. Additionally, this poster presentation discusses potential ways to further support all student success through advocacy, education, and training. This particular advocacy and education are geared towards educating professors and other university professionals on the importance of being culturally competent with regards to the identities of first-generation college students. These pieces of training will benefit the student body by empowering them through their authenticity and individuality within their institution.
Description of Program
College of Education- Division of Psychology and Counseling
Identify Grant
Undergraduate Research
Faculty / Staff Sponsor
Dr. Alli Cipra
Presentation File
wf_yes
First Generation Students Sense of Belonging in Higher Education
The purpose of this poster presentation is to highlight the struggles faced by first-generation college students at their institution and identify where this support is needed. This poster presentation identifies the multiple learning curves and obstacles experienced by first-generation college students towards degree completion. It is recognized that first-generation college students and their paths through higher education are notably different compared to their continuing generation peers. The identity revolved around being a first-generation college student starts with the relationship with their family because they are the first in their family to obtain a bachelor's degree. With the appropriate support given to these students, they can overcome barriers like the hidden curriculum; while also becoming confident in maintaining strong academic connections with professors and balancing individuality with cultural identity. Additionally, this poster presentation discusses potential ways to further support all student success through advocacy, education, and training. This particular advocacy and education are geared towards educating professors and other university professionals on the importance of being culturally competent with regards to the identities of first-generation college students. These pieces of training will benefit the student body by empowering them through their authenticity and individuality within their institution.
Other Presentation Disciplines:
First-Generation College students, Multicultural students, Academic support/success