Savanna Hoffman
Being a first-generation university student means being the first in your family to attend university. This generally means that your parents or guardians have not attained a bachelor's degree, although definitions vary across institutions. Some extend the definition to neither parent having attended any form of higher education, while others define it as a parent having some college education but no degree. First-generation students often face unique challenges, such as navigating the college application process and understanding the complexities of university life without prior family experience or guidance. Universities recognize these challenges and may offer tailored support systems, mentorship programs, and resources to help first-generation students succeed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Formal Definition | A student whose parent(s) did not complete a four-year college or university degree |
| Number of First-Generation Students | 8.2 million in the U.S. (54% of all undergrads) |
| Graduation Rate | 24% (vs 59% for continuing-generation students) |
| Enrollment in Two-Year Schools | 48% (vs 32% for continuing-generation students) |
| Enrollment in Online Courses | 8% (vs 5% for continuing-generation students) |
| Completion of College Degree in Six Years | 50% (vs 64% for continuing-generation students) |
| Enrollment in Part-Time College | 48% (vs 38% for continuing-generation students) |
| Challenges | May feel alienated and anxious, struggle to relate to peers, and have to learn unspoken cultural norms and expectations of university life |
| Benefits | More likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and be civically engaged |
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What You'll Learn
First-generation student statistics
First-generation students are defined as "students enrolled in postsecondary education whose parents had not attended college". First-generation students face many challenges that their continuing-generation peers do not and tend to cluster at institutions with affordable tuition and less selective admission criteria.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), about 10% of first-generation students are first-generation immigrants, and another 23% have foreign-born parents. Twenty-eight percent of first-generation college students are aged 30 or older, compared to only 16% of continuing-generation college students.
First-generation students represent more than half of all undergraduates in the US. However, they are graduating at a far lower rate than their peers, with a graduation rate of 24% compared to 59% for continuing-generation students.
Closing the completion gap between first-generation and continuing-generation students could result in 4.4 million more graduates and a net benefit of $700 billion to the US. College graduates are 88% more likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and are twice as likely to be civically engaged.
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Challenges faced by first-generation students
First-generation students face a variety of challenges, from financial instability and family conflicts to lower usage rates of on-campus resources and feelings of alienation.
Financial Challenges
First-generation students often come from low-income families and attend underfunded schools, which can result in a lack of college readiness and lower grade point averages. They may need larger loans and scholarships and may have to take on jobs during college, contributing to greater stress and less time for school work. Financial burdens are the primary reason first-generation students leave school.
Family Conflicts and Guilt
Many first-generation students experience guilt over leaving their families and financial responsibilities behind. They may feel they are rejecting their past and community and that they have an opportunity that other family members did not. This can lead to family conflicts and a lack of familial support.
Lower Usage of On-Campus Resources
First-generation students tend to use health, advising, and academic support services less frequently than their peers. This could be due to a lack of awareness of these services or other obligations, such as part-time jobs.
Feelings of Alienation and Low Self-Esteem
First-generation students, particularly those from minority groups, may feel alienated from their peers and question their ability to be academically competitive. They may face the stigma that their college admittance is based solely on affirmative action rather than their academic abilities, contributing to low academic self-esteem.
Despite these challenges, first-generation students have been shown to possess strengths such as higher satisfaction in college, increased learning gains, and a greater ability to overcome setbacks.
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Available support for first-generation students
First-generation students often face unique challenges when navigating their way through university life. They may lack the support systems and resources that students with college-educated parents have. However, they bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the university. Here are some ways to provide support for first-generation students:
Mentorship Programs
One of the most effective ways to support first-generation students is to offer mentorship programs. Mentors can provide invaluable guidance and support to mentees as they navigate the complexities of university life. They can also serve as role models, inspiring their mentees to achieve their academic and personal goals. Additionally, mentors can help mentees develop essential skills, such as time management, communication, and networking, which are crucial for success during and after university.
Financial Aid and Support
Financial support is crucial for first-generation students, who often lack the financial resources and support systems that students from families with a history of higher education may have. Universities can help by offering financial aid guidance, scholarships, grants, and other resources to assist with tuition, textbooks, housing, and other expenses.
Career Support
First-generation students may be at a disadvantage when it comes to securing fulfilling careers after graduation due to limited professional networks and less experience with internships, networking, and job searching. Universities can bridge this gap by offering career support services, including networking workshops, job shadowing opportunities, and alumni mentorship programs, to help first-generation students build professional connections and gain the skills needed for a successful career.
Orientation and Parent Engagement
Orientation programs specifically designed for first-generation students and their parents can help "demystify" the university experience. By simplifying complex university terminology and processes, institutions can make the transition smoother for first-generation students and their families, improving retention and overall student success.
Community Building
Community is essential for first-generation students, who may feel isolated or struggle with a sense of belonging on campus. Universities can facilitate community-building initiatives, such as clubs or support groups specifically for first-generation students, to foster a sense of connection and belonging.
Overall, supporting first-generation students requires a comprehensive approach that addresses their unique needs and challenges. By providing mentorship, financial aid, career guidance, and community, universities can help first-generation students succeed and achieve their academic and personal goals.
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First-generation student experiences
First-generation university students face a unique set of challenges and experiences during their academic journey. One of the primary challenges is a lack of understanding and support from family and friends, who may be unfamiliar or uncomfortable with the idea of university education. This can lead to feelings of isolation and a struggle to balance academic, work, and social commitments without a strong support system. Additionally, first-generation students often come from disadvantaged backgrounds and may face financial worries, concerns about academic progress, and difficulties navigating the higher education landscape.
Demographically, first-generation students in the United States are more likely to be female, older, black or Hispanic, have dependent children, and come from low-income communities. This presents a unique set of challenges, as students from low-income families often experience physical, emotional, and academic stress due to their economic situation. They may also have to navigate unfamiliar social and professional landscapes while pursuing their degrees.
The transition to university can be particularly difficult for first-generation students. They may struggle to relate to their peers who have greater access to resources and support systems. Additionally, first-generation students often lack the cultural and social capital that facilitates the transmission of "know-how" required to adjust to university life. This includes understanding career and employability services, developing a sense of belonging within the university culture, and engaging in student social activities.
However, there are also benefits and privileges associated with being a first-generation student. Many first-generation students develop a strong sense of independence and resilience as they navigate their academic journey. They may also benefit from specialised opportunities, guidance, and support systems designed specifically for first-generation and underrepresented students. Additionally, first-generation students are applying to colleges at twice the rate of continuing-generation students, demonstrating their determination and drive to pursue higher education.
Support for first-generation students is crucial to their success. This includes mentorship and academic connections, as well as financial resources and guidance. It is important for universities to recognise and address exclusionary cultures that may discourage first-generation students from enrolling or hinder their educational experience. By providing targeted support and resources, universities can help first-generation students succeed and close the graduation gap between first and continuing-generation students.
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Defining a first-generation student
A first-generation university or college student is typically defined as a student whose parents did not complete a four-year college or university degree. However, this definition may not account for the diversity of first-generation students. For example, a student's parents may have attended college but not earned a degree, or they may have attended college in a different educational system outside of their home country. Additionally, a student's grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings could have degrees, and they would still qualify as first-generation.
First-generation students make up a significant portion of the undergraduate population in countries like the United States, with some sources stating that they represent more than half of all undergraduates. Despite this, first-generation students are less likely to complete their degrees compared to their peers and are more likely to drop out. They also tend to enrol in two-year schools, online courses, and part-time programmes at higher rates than continuing-generation students.
Being a first-generation student can come with unique challenges and experiences. These students may feel alienated or anxious about being the first in their family to pursue higher education. They may also need to navigate unfamiliar social, economic, and professional landscapes and learn the unspoken cultural norms and expectations of university life. Additionally, first-generation students may not have the same support systems as their peers whose parents have been through the higher education system.
To support first-generation students, universities can implement various initiatives. These include increasing the visibility of first-generation students, providing clearer resources and guidance to help navigate the university system, and offering mentorship schemes or peer support for students from similar backgrounds. There are also dedicated programmes and scholarships specifically designed to support first-generation students, such as America Needs You (ANY) and Educational Opportunity Programs (EOP).
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Frequently asked questions
A first-generation university student is someone who is the first in their family to attend university.
In the US, first-generation students represent more than half of all undergraduates. In the UK, 27% of a cohort of young people had gained a degree by age 25, two-thirds of whom were the first in their family to go to university.
First-generation students may find it difficult to relate to their peers and may need to learn the unspoken cultural norms and expectations of university life. They may also be at greater risk of dropping out.
Yes, many universities offer resources and support systems such as free tutoring, accessible counselling, mentorship programs, financial aid sessions, first-generation clubs, and orientation programs. There are also specific grants and scholarships for first-generation students.
If you are the first in your family to attend university, you are likely a first-generation student. A formal definition is a student whose parents did not complete a four-year college or university degree, but this definition may vary depending on the institution and other factors such as family income and ethnicity.
