ERIC Number: EJ1122313
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1042-0541
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
First Generation College Students: Motivations and Support Systems
Irlbeck, Erica; Adams, Shylo; Akers, Cindy; Burris, Scott; Jones, Stephanie
Journal of Agricultural Education, v55 n2 p154-166 2014
The number of first generation college students enrolling at universities is on the rise. These students often struggle with the transition into university life because of the lack of knowledge about this new environment. Some do not have support systems that are needed to be successful. Understanding how to assist these college students to improve retention is extremely important. A case study was conducted to determine the motivations and support systems of first generation college students within the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR) at Texas Tech University (TTU). Nine respondents from different departments in CASNR and one representative of the TTU's first generation college student program were interviewed. It was determined that three factors led to their enrollment: parental/family support, teacher encouragement, and self-motivation. The researchers also found most participants were involved in at least one department/college organization, religious group, or other university program. It was also determined these students depended upon three major support groups and systems, such as parents, friends, and advisers/professors. The researchers concluded the students were very satisfied with their experiences within the college and university as a whole.
Descriptors: First Generation College Students, College Students, Student Motivation, Services, Case Studies, Agricultural Education, Enrollment, Interviews, School Holding Power
American Association for Agricultural Education. P.O. Box 7607, Department of Agricultural and Extension Education, Raleigh, NC 27695. Web site: http://www.aaaeonline.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Texas
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A