First-Generation Strength: Supporting First-Generation College Students in Study Abroad

• Other Authors: Rausch, Kyle Curtis (Author)
• Format: Doctoral Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 2017
• Subjects: Higher education; Higher education administration; Education abroad; First-generation college student; Study abroad
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/2286/R.I.44204

abstract: First-generation college students are an underrepresented group in terms of study abroad participation nationally and at Arizona State University (ASU). The ASU and International Studies Abroad (ISA) Planning Scholars Scholarship Program was developed to support first-generation college students in their pursuit of study abroad. This mixed-methods study examined what the specific needs of first-generation college students are as they pursue study abroad experiences and what effect the ASU and ISA Planning Scholars Program had on them. A combination of surveys, semi-structured interviews, and a photovoice project provided data for the study. Key findings included that first-generation college students had concerns about finances, finding a study abroad program that would keep them on track for graduation, making friends while they study abroad, and traveling abroad alone. The study indicated that the Planning Scholars program did increase students’ confidence in pursuing study abroad. Additionally, the theory of First-Generation Strength was developed which suggests that first-generation college students possess certain strengths and capital that help them overcome a variety of new obstacles and make them an ideal candidate for study abroad due to their experiences with having to navigate new contexts, such as going to college, independently. === Dissertation/Thesis === Doctoral Dissertation Leadership and Innovation 2017