Figuring Out the System: The Cultural Wealth of Latinx Second-Generation Immigrants in Navigating Higher Education

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Narratives of Latinx College Students

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study is to examine the ways Latinx second-generation immigrant students draw on their familial and community strengths to navigate higher education as first-generation college-going students. Utilizing the framework of Latino critical race theory and community cultural wealth to examine in-depth interviews with ten undergraduate students enrolled in a four-year Hispanic-Serving Institution, this study offers insight into the ways that Latinx students draw on their cultural wealth and second-generation immigrant survival skills to navigate higher education with persistence and resilience. Findings from this study reveal the ways students utilized linguistic, aspirational and familial capital to overcome obstacles and maintain motivation to complete college. Implications include the development of approaches to support first-generation college-going and immigrant students.

Author

• Janeth Martinez-Cortes, The University of Texas - San Antonio