Date of Award

Spring 5-8-2026

Document Type

Research Paper

Department

Whittier Scholars Program

First Advisor

Prof. Rosemary P. Carbine

Abstract

Today, about one third of college students are characterized as first-generation (Bloomberg 2024, 3). Despite this rise in first-generation students seeking higher education, academic institutions continue to fall short of supporting this specific group of students. This project investigates the experiences of first-generation students at selected private, four-year, liberal arts colleges in the United States to better understand these students’ experiences as well as discuss the challenges academic institutions face as they aim to support their first-generation student population. Using Whittier College and some comparison schools as a case study, my project will investigate the resources currently offered to first-generation college students, as well as previous resources and support programs that are no longer offered, to evaluate the effectiveness of private liberal arts institutions’ efforts to address current and past areas of student need. Specifically, I will focus on the challenges faced by first-generation students socially, financially, and academically. Research proves first-generation-specific programs and resources help to connect first-generation college students to vital student networks, potential mentors, and other institutional support. Based on an extensive literature review and observations of my personal experiences as a first-generation college student, I will conclude this project with my recommendations for different programs and resources that private four-year liberal arts institutions, including Whittier College, can provide first-generation students to address the challenges they are currently facing while also empowering them to thrive academically, professionally, and personally.

Download

Share

COinS