Persistence to Graduate: A Study of First Generation College Students

Abstract

At NKU, first generation college students (FGCS) make up 47% of the student population, yet only 36% persist to graduation, a lower percentage than that of other populations on campus. This study seeks to examine how school involvement and family support impact a student’s persistence. An online survey was used to determine what factors students perceive as being most influential to their college careers. It is anticipated that FGCS will be less likely to persist and have less family support than non FGCS. Findings from this study could be used to inform future policy around supports available for FGCS.