First-Year Student Experiences: Uncovering the Hidden Expectations and Navigating the Institutional Culture at a Private Four-Year University

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 74
  In Roundtable Session: How First-Year Students Navigate Their Environments

Abstract

This article expands and links previous work on hidden curriculum in higher education, college retention and persistence, and student engagement to address what we call the integration information gap, to better prepare students for their transition to and first year of college. We draw on hidden curriculum ideology, return on investment (ROI) theory, and interview data from administrators, faculty, and students, to shed light on the impact frontline faculty and student services administrators have on new students accessing the hidden curriculum at a private institution. We find that active connection is key to narrowing the gap; and we offer recommendations for faculty, administrators, students, as well as future research.

Authors

• Tenisha Tevis, Oregon State University

• Kristi Britton, University of the Pacific