Kortesmaki, Victoria (Utah Valley University)
Faculty Advisor: Nagaishi, Garrett (Utah Valley University, I Am First)
This research addresses the limiting labels and language attributed to first-generation college students and the stereotypes imposed upon them. Stereotypes such as belonging to low-income families, having little family support as they are the first in their family to go to college, little academic preparation, and little commitment to a college education. The "first-generation" label itself is something that has been discussed more in recent years and has brought these stereotypes into the light. This has prompted us, as first-generation students ourselves, to study what continuing-generation college students think of first-generation college students' potential and educational choices. We used Utah Valley University's definition of first-generation college student for this research, "if neither parent/guardian has completed a U.S. bachelor's degree" the student is considered a first-generation college student. Previous research indicates that first-generation college students have different learning and career outcomes. We created and distributed a survey among Utah Valley University students asking them a series of questions that related to first-generation college students and the stereotypes associated with them. We also surveyed first-generation college students about their perceptions of themselves. Our study found that while there are stereotypes associated with first-generation college students, not all of them are consistent with how first-generation college students perceive themselves.