This publication compares first-generation students (i.e., those whose parents have no more than a high school education) with their peers whose parent or parents attended college. It focuses on mathematics course taking--the effectiveness of taking algebra in 8th grade and advanced math courses in high school for subsequent college…

In May 2002, Governor Rick Perry announced plans for several higher education initiatives, including the recruitment, preparation, enrollment, and retention of first generation college students. First generation college students are students who would be the first in their families to complete higher education through two- and four-year…

In the course of examining the holistic and embodied expressions of self-conceptualization among six women academics from working- and poverty-class backgrounds, artful "happenings" became a generative tool for inquiry and analysis and provided interpretive directions. The author's approach to arts-based inquiry and the value of such an approach…

Drawing on a multiyear research project, describes the intellectual, psychological, familial, and cultural dramas that are played out in the lives of first-generation college students. Examines the effects of these dramas on students and what colleges can do to help students play them out. (RJM)

Using personal experience combined with research, describes the lives of first-generation college students who are entering a new country. Lists ways in which colleges can do a better job of reaching out to these students. Gives a profile of a nontraditional student and portrays the hardships these students encounter. (RJM)

This article reviews recent literature related to student retention. Since students from first generation and low income backgrounds are among the least likely to be retained through degree completion, institutional retention efforts must take the needs of such students into account if more equitable educational attainment rates are desired. (JM)

Examined the perceptions of campus climate among minority first-generation college students at a Midwestern university. Identified five major interrelated factors connected to the institutional climate's potential influence on diversity and its relationship with persistence and matriculation: perceptions of diversity, barriers to acculturation,…

Examines first-generation students' perceptions of their academic literacy skills and their performance and persistence in college. Indicates that first generation students' self-perceptions represent critical factors in the college experience, underscoring the importance of helping students forge identities as members of academic communities. (SG)

Presents the results of Dr. Ernest Pascarella's National Study of Student Learning, which investigates institutional influences on learning and cognitive development. Presents examples of positive and negative influences on student learning. Outlines recommendations that can influence institutional programs regarding first-generation students,…

Self-regulation is generally accepted as an important construct in student success within environments that allow learner choice, such as online courses. The purpose of the current study was to investigate differences between first- and second-generation college students' ability to self-regulate their online learning. An ANCOVA, with comfort…

Many first-generation college students struggle during their first year in college. Cushman shares the reflections of 16 college students she worked with over two years who were the first in their families to attend college. Students describe how entering a climate where most fellow students come from backgrounds of greater wealth and…

This paper summarizes the findings of a twenty year old pre-engineering program that is aimed at improving both the recruitment and retention of under-represented students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). The Wright Science Technology and Engineering Preparatory Program (STEPP) was initiated in 1988 for…

"National CrossTalk" is a publication of the National Center for Public Policy and Higher Education. The National Center promotes public policies that enhance opportunities for quality education and training beyond high school. The primary purpose of "National CrossTalk" is to stimulate informed discussion and debate of higher…

Recounts a young teacher's awakening to the problems and conflicts in community college education, explores issues particularly related to adult students, and provides case studies that exemplify the goals, problems, and needs of reentry, first-generation students. Offers guidance on working with adult students. (DMM)

The author's career path can best be described as "unconventional" or "non-traditional" for a senior student affairs administrator. Being a first-generation college graduate, the author's focus was on what he characterizes as a "clear cut career path" for a Myers Briggs Extraverted Sensing Thinking Judging (ESTJ):…