Lived Experiences of Underrepresented First-Generation College Students

The purpose of this qualitative research was to gain insight into the lived experiences of first-generation college students from underrepresented backgrounds participating in an academic program uniquely for this population with a mentoring component. Data from conducting in-depth interviews with eight student participants of such a program at a private liberal arts college was analyzed using the constant comparative method. The findings showed the value and impact of all lived experiences and indicated the role they played in forming strategies and paths forward in life. It also found the role of an academic program or community to be central to the success and wellbeing of underrepresented first-generation college. Further; research to determine how these programs affect academic performance and outcomes would be insightful to the value of these spaces for this population.