The Influence of Institutional Selectivity on the Social and Cultural Capital of First-Generation College Students

• In Event: Leveraging social capital to transform outcomes

Abstract

This study examines the differences in the acquisition of social and cultural capital among first-generation college students (FGCS) by institutional selectivity. Research has shown that FGCS attending more selective institutions are more likely to graduate compared to those that attend less selective institutions. Access to educational resources, financial assistance, peer and faculty/staff relations are strong characteristics found at more selective colleges. The findings from our survey show that FGCS who attended more selective colleges accumulated more social and cultural capital compared to FGCS who attended less selective institutions. The results from this study can help us improve efforts to increase access to high-quality higher education institutions to help FGCS successfully transition to future careers and experience upward socioeconomic mobility.

Authors

• Maria Jose Melendrez, Stanford University

• Cynthia M. Alcantar, Loyola Marymount University

• William Perez, Loyola Marymount University

• Roberta Espinoza, Claremont University - Pitzer College