Abstract:
This dissertation aims to gain a better understanding of how socioeconomic status influences college choice of first generation college students. Three overarching goals guide the research inquiry: To gain knowledge of how the college search process differs for first generation college students; to better understand how financial factors, such as socioeconomic status, influence the eventual college choice of first generation college students; and to apply knowledge and ¬understanding of the college search and selection process for first generation college students with the intent of providing support, opportunities, resources, and programming for this student population they might not otherwise receive. This dissertation is guided by four research questions: What perceptions do traditional first generation college students at The University of Alabama have about the role or purpose of higher education; What perceptions do traditional first generation college students at The University of Alabama have about the influence of socioeconomic status – as defined by the combination of the parent/guardian’s education, income, and occupation – in their decision to pursue higher education; What perceptions do traditional first generation college students at The University of Alabama have about the role of socioeconomic status in navigating their college search and selection process; and What perceptions do traditional first generation college students at The University of Alabama have about the role socioeconomic status played in their ultimate college choice? This research is grounded in Hossler and Gallagher’s (1987) Three-Phase Model of College Choice by evaluating the first generation college students’ choice through three distinct phases (predisposition, search, and choice).
