How Relevant Is Grit? The Importance of Social Capital in First-Generation College Students’ Academic Success

Author(s):  
Daniel J. Almeida ◽  
Andrew M. Byrne ◽  
Rachel M. Smith ◽  
Saul Ruiz
2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Vanessa Delgado

Past research demonstrates that familial and community support can aid the academic success of Latino/a students. However, few studies explore how older siblings influence their younger siblings’ education trajectory including primary, secondary, and post-secondary education. Drawing on 25 in-depth interviews with Latino/a first generation college students at a large research university in Southern California, I find that older siblings assist their younger family members by (a) choosing schools, (b) assisting with reading comprehension, (c) helping with homework assignments, and (d) post high school preparation. In doing do, they demystify norms and rules about education and attempt to position their loved ones on a path of upward mobility. I capture the labor Latino/a children of immigrants provide to their families and how these contributions can result in tensions between parents and children. Findings advance frameworks in immigrant brokering, Latino/a families, and education.


Author(s):  
Lisa Schelbe ◽  
Martin Swanbrow Becker ◽  
Carmella Spinelli ◽  
Denesha McCray

This qualitative study examines the perceptions of students enrolled in a campus-based program designed to promote academic success and retention of first generation college students. Method: Twenty-five undergraduate students in the program participated in focus groups and interviews to share their perceptions and experiences. Research team members conducted a thematic analysis on the focus groups and interviews transcripts. Findings: Students reported program components that contributed to their academic success and retention including support, expectations, resources, and preparation. Students also described concerns about how students’ needs changed over time and how students in the program were perceived on campus.


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