Bridging the Gap: a Mixed-methods Analysis of Support Programs and First-generation College Student Outcomes

Abstract

Over the past several decades, there has been an increase in access to higher education for underrepresented minorities. However, due to inequities that occur during K-12 education, many historically underrepresented students struggle with the rigor of a college education. To mitigate this, federal programs such as TRIO offer outreach to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds as they pursue a college degree. Additionally, individual institutions create their own outreach programs to support first- generation and other historically underrepresented college students. While these programs have increased retention among first-generation college students, little is known about the effect of these programs on time to degree completion. Using a mixed- methods approach, I analyzed a dataset of student information and conducted interviews with college students. I found that overall, program participation had a positive effect on a student’s time to degree completion, and the cultural and social capital acquired through program participation helped students remove or mitigate barriers to academic success