REACHING ACADEMIC SUCCESS: EXPERIENCES OF FIRST-GENERATION STUDENTS AT A LARGE PUBLIC RESEARCH INSTITUTION

First-generation college students (FGCSs) pursue a college degree as a means of social mobility, yet they are not being properly supported in completion of it. This study sought to gain an understanding of how FGCSs are perceiving what it takes to be an academically successful college student at a large public research institution. My research attempted to understand the disconnect from FGCS perception of what it takes to be academically successful and how this may impact their ability to persist with moderate to high levels of academic success. Through a phenomenological study design, 13 participants were interviewed in virtual 1:1 semi-structure interview. The interview informed the perception participants had regarding the academic rigor and significant value placed upon having a community at the university. Furthermore, the findings highlighted how future goals influenced actions taken as one moved through their academic journey. While the study does help shine a light at the perceptions FGCSs of large public research institution have, future studies are needed to better understand the perception of FGCSs in other regions to gain a greater understanding of the FGCS experiences at various large public research institutions beyond Southern California.