New research from The Hub for Equity and Innovation in Higher Education offers a window into attitudes of belonging among first-generation undergraduate students at Georgetown University—insights that will help shape the university’s ongoing work in the equity space.
Topics: First-generation students
Rethinking gateway courses to improve outcomes, equity
A higher education nonprofit is working with dozens of colleges and universities to revamp their large, introductory courses, which for years have been barriers to success for first-generation, low-income, and underrepresented students.
Classroom competition may fuel first-gen students’ imposter syndrome, researchers say
Perceived competition in STEM courses may be an overlooked barrier for first-generation college students, according to a recent study.
Broadband access, specialized outreach key to supporting rural students
A growing number of colleges and universities are focusing on rural students as a distinct demographic group, recognizing that they face unique obstacles to college enrollment and completion.
New book asks: What do first-gen students sacrifice in seeking upward mobility?
Everyone makes trade-offs in balancing family, community, education, and careers, but a new book shows how first-generation and low-income college students face especially complex ethical dilemmas.
Access is just the beginning: In Georgetown visit, author Anthony Jack shares challenges that less-privileged students face at elite universities
Jack joined Georgetown Professor Marcia Chatelain in a campus conversation sponsored by the Georgetown Scholars Program.
Campuses nationwide host First-Generation College Celebrations
Colleges from coast to coast recently participated in the third-annual National First-Generation College Celebration, hosting programs, distributing promotional gifts, and engaging their campus communities around first-generation student success.
‘At-risk’ students: Could changing the label change the narrative?
California has amended its state Penal and Education Code to replace the term “at-risk youth” with “at-promise youth.” Advocates hope the small change will help shift how educators think about students and their strengths.
Philanthropy in higher education focuses on student access, success
More than 90 percent of private foundations interested in funding higher education are prioritizing college access and success for low-income and first generation students.
In grad school, first-gen students face additional hidden challenges
The first-generation student experience isn’t limited to the undergraduate years. In fact, first-gen graduate students may encounter even more intense hurdles in a competitive environment that prizes social connections.
$100M gift to UVA will support scholarships for first-gen students
Real estate developer David Walentas grew up working on a farm and knew no one who went to college. Now he’s funding scholarships and fellowships to transform first-generation students’ economic and social circumstances.
California: UC considers going test-optional, new law funds emergency student aid
Given the system’s size, the University of California’s decision could shape the future of standardized testing requirements in college admissions. Meanwhile, targeting other barriers to attainment, California recently made available additional funds for emergency student aid.