Relationships with Peers and Advisors: Comparison of First-Generation and Continuing-Generation Students’ Experiences

• In Event: Hilton Roundtable Session 20
  In Roundtable Session: Roundtable Session 2: Graduate and Postdoctoral Education Across the Disciplines SIG

Abstract

First-generation students represent approximately 30 percent of doctoral degree recipients. Yet very few studies have examined their experiences and outcomes in doctoral programs. Drawing on social and cultural capital theory as well as the socialization framework, we examine experiences and outcomes of 98 first-generation and continuing-generation students pursuing a Ph.D. in the life sciences. Interviews revealed a complex picture of similarity and difference. Both first-generation and continuing-generation students reported positive relationships with their PIs and lab mates. However, underneath those similarities were notable differences in students’ access to collaboration and publishing opportunities. Presented findings offer important insights into lab dynamics and friendship networks and how those contribute to divergent opportunities between first-generation and continuing-generation students.

Authors

• Josipa Roksa, University of Virginia

• Sarah E. Whitley, University of Virginia

• Annie M. Wofford, University of California - Los Angeles

• David F. Feldon, Utah State University