The Big Reveal: How Generational Status Influences Educational Experience

• In Event: 72.066 - Poster Session 16
  In Poster Session: 72.066-5 - Society, Culture, and Change Poster Session

Abstract

Since its inception, American higher education has developed policies excluding large segments of the population. While these practices went unchallenged when American leadership was homogenous, the question remains, how do these continued exclusionary practices impact modern, increasingly diverse American society? The purpose of this study was to identify which experiences influenced decisions for a racially, and gender diverse group of first generation students at a public institution on America’s West Coast, to pursue a professional doctorate. Through structured interview, this study found three themes most significant: Higher Education expectation (Parental Expectations); Community knowledge/ Involvement; and Educational Journey. As first generation student representation increases, this study’s findings can aide in the development of inclusive higher education policy development.

Author

• Clyde Henry Lewis, San Francisco State