Latinos' Pathway to College: How Culture and Structural Barriers Influence the Postsecondary Transition

• In Event: 65.072 - Higher Education: Who Gets In, and What Do They Get Out?

Abstract

Latinos transition to four-year colleges at lower rates than other racial/ethnic groups. This study uses the Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002 (ELS:2002) to investigate whether family influences or structural barriers, such as academic experiences and financial preparation for college, influence expectation formation and the transition to college. We also compare this process to investigate differences between Latinos and whites. Findings suggest that family influences on postsecondary outcomes are greater among whites than Latinos, and that financial concerns are relevant for both groups. We discuss future directions to understand Latinos’ pathway to college, and ways that Latinos might be unique from other racial/ethnic groups as they go through the postsecondary transition.

Authors

• Andrew D. Hoyt, University of Notre Dame

• Amy G. Langenkamp, University of Notre Dame