Abstract:
College accessibility is a common topic amongst higher education professionals in today’s society. One specific example of an underserved population of students that can greatly benefit from the concept of college access is first generation college students. Previous research shows that first generation college students are often at a disadvantage compared to their peers in regards to college enrollment. In order for high schools teachers and guidance counselors as well as higher education administrators and admissions personnel to fully assist these students with their college enrollment, we must be knowledgeable about the factors that influence their college choice process. This qualitative research study investigated the college choice process for first generation college students at a small, private, religious affiliated institution. Using Hossler and Gallagher’s (1987) Model of College Choice, this study examined the three-stage college choice process including predisposition, search, and choice. Interviews were conducted with 31 first generation college students in the freshman class at Shorter University. Each participant was asked a series of 11 questions that coincide with the three stages of the college choice process. The data collected throughout the interviews was analyzed and coded to develop a thematic structure of the findings. The study resulted in three overarching conclusions. First, the aspiration to attend college was the first theme that was apparent during the predisposition stage of the college choice process. The majority of students revealed that they aspired to attend college at an early age in their life. Second, the theme of support from others was prominent in the research. Many of the participants revealed their appreciation for their parents, family members, teachers, and other adult figures that assisted them with their college enrollment. Finally, the obstacles that these first generation college students had to overcome was a prevalent theme in the data. These students handled many challenges throughout the college choice process from their socioeconomic status to their parents’ lack of knowledge about higher education. Though faced with adversity, the first generation college students in the freshman class at Shorter University utilized available resources to successfully enroll in post-secondary education.
