"I Deserve to Be Here!" Centering First-Generation Students' Community Cultural Wealth in Elite College Experiences

• In Event: Diverse Postsecondary Student Learning and Experiences

Abstract

“Whose knowledge counts, and whose knowledge is discounted?” First generation college students (1GCS) recognize and endure racist and elitist legacies embedded in higher education institutions (HEIs) through assessments of culture and class. Community Cultural Wealth (CCW) seeks to transform and empower communities of color to identify, value, and mobilize towards racial and social justice using cultural assets. Through 1GCS’s counterstories, we highlight how CCW can transform 1GCS’ experiences at an elite HEI by combating challenges of belonging, resisting “cultural mismatch” between institutional and personal/cultural values, and navigating the transition to an HEI. In pursuit of truth, an understanding of 1GCS’ experiences creates a unique alternative lens for HIE in recognizing CCW and supporting academic and social success of 1GCS.
 

Authors

• Stephanie Santos Youngblood, Arizona State University
  Presenting Author

• Tara Lynn Bartlett, Arizona State University
  Presenting Author

• Charlton Long, Arizona State University
  Presenting Author

• Audrey Amrein-Beardsley, Arizona State University
  Non-Presenting Author