Conquering Fears as a First-Generation Hispanic College Student

Abstract

Applying to college can be a daunting task, especially for first-generation students like the ones at Seaside High School (SHS). Research from the National Center for Education Statistics highlights this challenge: while 54% of students whose parents completed high school enrolled in college immediately after graduation, only 36% of students whose parents did not finish high school made that transition (Balemian & Feng, 2013). These students often face barriers like financial strain, limited awareness of available support programs, and the pressure of navigating higher education independently. Recognizing these challenges is key to expanding access to opportunities. In response, I developed two workshops specifically designed to guide students through the financial resources needed for college and provide essential information for navigating the college journey. These sessions were offered at Seaside High School to support students as they take this important step toward their future