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Empowering First-Generation Community College Students
Community colleges play a pivotal role in enabling access to higher education, particularly for students who are the first in their families to attend college. This demographic, known as first-generation students, constitutes a significant portion of community college enrollment—nearly two-thirds, as highlighted by a NASPA study.
To foster success among first-generation community college students, a coordinated and resolute commitment from campus leaders and stakeholders is essential. This begins with enhancing support systems that are established at the point of admission and persist through to graduation or transfer.
Through strategic collaboration, community colleges have the potential to effect meaningful change in the educational journeys of first-generation students. By streamlining processes and resources, these institutions can enhance not only the college experience for first-gen students but for the entire student body.
1. Clarify Your Resources
Research from NASPA emphasizes the vital role that community and technical colleges serve in providing pathways to postsecondary education, especially for those who may not otherwise consider enrollment. It is crucial for these institutions to clarify the resources available to first-generation students to maximize their support.
Dr. Stephanie Bannister, assistant vice president of the Center for First-generation Student Success at NASPA, advocates for campus leaders to map out resources clearly before the academic year begins. She states, “Colleges should take time to create a map of resources and point them out to students from day one, creating access from the very beginning.”
According to additional findings in the Journal of First-generation Student Success, first-gen students often hesitate to seek help on campus, which can hinder their adaptation. Notably, specific programs for first-gen students, such as TRIO, may not be immediately visible alongside more common student services like advising or financial aid.
To improve accessibility, institutions should consider developing detailed resources maps that highlight where and how to access services, when to utilize them, and whom to contact for assistance.
2. Create Opportunities for Community
A strong support network significantly benefits first-generation students as they navigate their college experience. Dr. Bannister suggests that colleges normalize the challenges that first-gen students may feel during their transition into higher education.
She emphasizes, “Normalize that it can feel like you’re the only one… I promise you’re not alone in this journey.”
Institutions can foster a welcoming community by integrating existing campus supports into orientation events. For example, involving TRIO program staff in welcoming activities or encouraging faculty to create specialized learning communities for first-gen students can facilitate connections. Additionally, campus employees can promote their own experiences as first-generation students to create relatability.
Another beneficial strategy is to introduce initiatives such as common reading programs to encourage shared experiences among first-years, enhancing engagement from the outset. This creates various opportunities for first-gen students to connect with peers who share similar backgrounds.
3. Start the Transfer Talk Early
Community colleges serve as crucial stepping stones for students aiming to attain a baccalaureate degree. Despite findings from the Community College Research Center indicating that 80% of community college students aspire to earn a bachelor’s degree, only about 25% manage to transfer to four-year institutions.
Community colleges can bridge this gap for first-generation students by integrating transfer discussions from the very beginning. This proactive approach empowers students to consider transfer an achievable goal as they embark on their initial educational journey.
Sinclair Community College exemplifies this commitment through its partnership with the University of Dayton’s Kessler Scholars program, which offers tailored support and resources for first-gen students striving to earn a college degree.
Dr. Heather Adams from the Aspen Institute underscores the significance of this program, highlighting its inclusive framework and its role in facilitating early connections with college culture—an essential aspect of success for first-generation students.
4. Demystify the Experience
Accessing the academic and support services available on campus can be intimidating for first-generation students. Dr. Adams notes that it is crucial to demystify the higher education process for these students.
To support first-gen students, community college leadership, faculty, and staff should collectively encourage utilization of campus resources and build an environment where every student feels welcomed and valued. Adams points out that fostering a college-promoting culture from the outset allows first-generation students to cultivate a sense of belonging and personal agency within their academic journeys.
Key Takeaway
Community colleges are instrumental in addressing the needs of first-generation students. By implementing clear resource mapping, offering robust early transfer support, and facilitating community engagement, these institutions can empower first-generation students to achieve significant success both academically and personally.
Source
www.higheredjobs.com