First Generation Students in Higher Ed - On Campus Podcast

On Campus - with CITI Program

Sarah E. Whitley serves as vice president of the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA and The Suder Foundation. Prior to joining NASPA, Sarah earned a Ph.D. in higher education from the University of Virginia School of Education and Human Development before serving as director of First-Year Experience and Family Programs at Longwood University from 2007 – 2013. A proud first-generation college graduate, Sarah is the author of First-generation Student Success: A Landscape Analysis of Programs and Services at Four-year Institutions as well as other scholarship on first-generation and related topics.

First-generation college students in the United States face unique challenges. They are the first in their families to pursue higher education, often dealing with financial limitations, reliance on financial aid, and part-time jobs. They lack the guidance and support systems that students with college-educated parents have, which can make navigating the application process and campus life daunting. Imposter syndrome is a common psychological obstacle, as they may feel like they don't belong. Cultural and social adjustments can lead to feelings of isolation or a cultural gap. Despite these challenges, first-generation students demonstrate resilience and determination, often with the support of mentorship programs.

Learn more about the CITI Program: about.citiprogram.org