Abstract
The research paper addresses problems with current initiatives in the United States that attempt to increase college success among first-generation college students. My research questioned whether current college programs focus on unique characteristics that are pertinent to all first-generation students. The main finding was that the definition of first-generation was too broad. As a result, leaders use the term first-generation student to attract diverse political groups in favor of racial, social, and cultural reform. In turn, college programs that try to help first-generation students instead focus on their minority and low-income status. I found that the idea of focusing on minority and low-income students neglected the real problem that all first-generation students struggled with--clashing family and college culture. In conclusion, the struggle to fully integrate into an unfamiliar college culture while still closely attached to a family culture impedes first-generation students from college success.
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