STEM Identities, First-Generation College Students, and Cultural Capital

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: Navigating Identities and Positionings in STEM

Abstract

There are numerous studies focusing on science identity and first generation students respectively, but few that explore the intersection of the two categories. This study uses an assets-based perspective to investigate the forms of capital that first generation STEM majors bring to their academic careers. We conducted student interviews with first generation STEM majors over the course of an academic year. Students reported high levels of familial and community support, as well as a desire to contribute to their home community, contradicting the prevailing narrative that first generation students are lacking in cultural capital. In light of these results, we examine assumptions of the relationship between student independence and college success.

Authors

• Megan C. McGinty, The University of Alaska - Fairbanks

• Laura Carsten Conner, University of Alaska Fairbanks