Major
Hispanic Studies
Submission Type
Poster
Area of Study or Work
Educational Studies, Humanities, Other
Expected Graduation Date
2023
Location
CNS Atrium, Easel 36
Start Date
4-15-2023 10:30 AM
End Date
4-5-2023 11:45 AM
Abstract
This presentation will exhibit the multi-pronged approach used to research the two questions: What, if any, are first generation student best practices and programming, and, what can IWU do to implement these practices and why should they? Using a literature review, an IRB approved student survey, focus groups, and analysis of peer, aspirant, and cross-admit universities, the research showed a multitude of possible answers. The benefits of implementing these practices will reveal the full potential of our first generation students. We then triangulated best practices and resources based on the different methods or research.
The defining characteristics of first generation students are a gap in Cultural and Social capital. The difference in “academic capital” spans the entire student's experience, but is especially acute in the admissions process and the first four months of their tenure. Therefore making it important to access these supports in the first four months to the first year. This gap can be filled in many ways, such as affinity housing groups, First Generation dedicated staff/advisors, student mentors, and creating more ways to access resources provided. While this list is not exhaustive, these seem to be the most effective practices across many mediums. Disregarding the response of more financial aid, the top answers in the survey expressed a desire for trained first generation advisors, workshops for getting to know resources and the campus, knowing or meeting other first generation students, faculty and staff, and better outreach and resources to parents during the decision making process.
We believe that IWU needs to take these findings into consideration as the first generation student enrollment increases, while general enrollment decreases. As an institution, we must rise to the challenges or students will choose to go elsewhere as evidenced by the closing of small liberal arts colleges across the country.
The First Generation Student Initiative
CNS Atrium, Easel 36
This presentation will exhibit the multi-pronged approach used to research the two questions: What, if any, are first generation student best practices and programming, and, what can IWU do to implement these practices and why should they? Using a literature review, an IRB approved student survey, focus groups, and analysis of peer, aspirant, and cross-admit universities, the research showed a multitude of possible answers. The benefits of implementing these practices will reveal the full potential of our first generation students. We then triangulated best practices and resources based on the different methods or research.
The defining characteristics of first generation students are a gap in Cultural and Social capital. The difference in “academic capital” spans the entire student's experience, but is especially acute in the admissions process and the first four months of their tenure. Therefore making it important to access these supports in the first four months to the first year. This gap can be filled in many ways, such as affinity housing groups, First Generation dedicated staff/advisors, student mentors, and creating more ways to access resources provided. While this list is not exhaustive, these seem to be the most effective practices across many mediums. Disregarding the response of more financial aid, the top answers in the survey expressed a desire for trained first generation advisors, workshops for getting to know resources and the campus, knowing or meeting other first generation students, faculty and staff, and better outreach and resources to parents during the decision making process.
We believe that IWU needs to take these findings into consideration as the first generation student enrollment increases, while general enrollment decreases. As an institution, we must rise to the challenges or students will choose to go elsewhere as evidenced by the closing of small liberal arts colleges across the country.