Degree Type

Creative Component

Semester of Graduation

Fall 2018

Department

Human Development and Family Studies

First Major Professor

Brenda Lohman

Degree(s)

Master of Family and Consumer Sciences (MFCS)

Major(s)

Family and Consumer Sciences

Abstract

Unfortunately, first-generation and/or low-income students and their parents experience many obstacles to accessing higher education. First-generation college students are at a disadvantage when it comes to attaining higher education because of lack of knowledge and understanding of college terms, personal commitment, and familial support both financially and personally (Filkins & Doyle, 2002). Also, first-generation and/or low-income students are at a disadvantage in terms of overall college readiness and attendance, and students from less privileged families are less likely to attend postsecondary education (Schoon & Parsons, 2002). These findings are of concern as roughly 30% of the incoming freshman in the United States are first-generation and/or low-income students (Ramsey & Peale, 2010). Additionally, the cost of college has increased by 91% since 1978 (Brewer & McMahan, 2005). Thus, low-income students also face many financial barriers. Sadly, many students and their parents lack the necessary skills, resources, and training needed to perform effective postsecondary planning (Wimberly & Noeth, 2005).

Copyright Owner

Caleb Carver

File Format

application/pdf

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