The Impact of Social Class on Working-Class Students' College Choice Process

• In Event: Moscone Center West Roundtable Session 6
  In Roundtable Session: The Intersections of College Knowledge, Social Capital, and College Choice

Abstract

Growing divisions between the working-class and college-educated individuals at the national level make it important to understand how working-class students pursue college-going. In this qualitative narrative inquiry study, I interviewed 24 working-class students at two different research institutions about their social class backgrounds and college choice processes. Findings suggest that students receive emotional support from their familial networks and rely on high school staff to help provide logistical information. Moreover, while students often seek different careers, they are hesitant to leave behind the values and assets they associate with working-class backgrounds. This research has important implications for supporting students across K-16 pathways.

Author

• Genia Bettencourt, The University of Memphis