Reflections From McNair Scholars: Latinas Navigating Graduate School as First-Generation College Students

• In Event: Creating Inclusive Spaces: Diversity, Equity, and Belonging in Graduate Education

Abstract

Research shows U.S. graduate programs need to enhance enrollment and retention among historically underrepresented students (Carrillo, 2007; Gonzalez, 2007; Ramirez, 2014). Latinos currently comprise 19.1% of the U.S. population and are projected to reach 28% by 2060, yet only 7% of the Latino population in the U.S. held graduate degrees in 2021 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2023; Pew Research Center, 2022). The McNair Scholars Program aims to minimize this gap by creating a PhD pathway for underrepresented students. This study utilizes plática methodology to explore the experiences of four McNair Scholar Latinas who pursued graduate degrees. Preliminary findings include 1) the importance of mentorship, 2) bureaucratic, financial, and psychological challenges faced by first-generation college students, and 3) transformation through academic opportunity.

Authors

• Amy J. Nunez, Heritage University

• Laura Zamudio-Orozco, Heritage University

• Jereny Mendoza, University of Texas at Austin

• Mikaila Leyva, Edmonds Community College