Date of Award
Summer 8-2024
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Leadership Studies
Committee Chair
Dr. Lucinda Spaulding
Committee Member
Dr. Lindsay Pieper
Committee Member
Dr. Virginia Cylke
Abstract
First-generation college students (FGCS) differ from their traditional peers in that they are considered unprepared for both the intensity and cost of college. Many times, the families of these students have little background in higher education. As a result, earning a college degree can be extremely difficult as well as isolating for FGCS. Alongside this, historically, the majority of FGCS are women. The need for more research on FGCS women is growing, especially considering current developments in higher education. There is a significant amount of research on FGCS as well as specific groups of FGCS women. However, there is a lack of research on FGCS women as a group in a way that gives them the opportunity to share their stories. The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to understand the factors that influence college experience among 12 FGCS women in Central Virginia. This study used the self-determination theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000) as well as Tinto’s Model of Institutional Departure (Tinto, 1993) as theoretical frameworks. Data was collected through a survey (demographic and short answer), semi-structured interviews, and letters of advice. The findings of this study indicated that FGCS women attributed that opportunities, personal aspirations, college preparedness, integration, motivation, resources, support system, accomplishments, and grit are important factors that influence their college experience.
Rights
Copyright © 2024 Micki Hall. All rights reserved.
Recommended Citation
Hall, Micki, "A Phenomenology Examining Factors Influencing College Experience Among First-Generation College Student Women" (2024). Graduate Dissertations and Theses. 61.
https://digitalshowcase.lynchburg.edu/etd/61