Latisha dropped her bags on the floor of her dorm room and introduced herself to her new roommate, Denise. They got along easily, and after talking for some time Denise left to go to the library. Latisha marveled at their very different lives. Whereas Denise's parents are doctors, Latisha's mother works two jobs to pay the bills. Latisha considers herself very lucky to have won a scholarship to college. She worries about leaving her mother alone with her younger siblings-there's so much work to do and the little ones need a lot of supervision if they are to stay out of trouble in the neighborhood. Latisha worries that her little brothers will grow up too quickly and make dangerous decisions like joining one of the many neighborhood gangs. She realizes that she is very fortunate to be able

Question

to leave her poor community but worries that her absence will harm her family. At the same time, Latisha is delighted to have the opportunity to learn new things, to study with bright students and professors, and to prepare for a career as a doctor. As a pre-med major, Latisha has a very busy semester ahead and she hopes that she won't disappoint those who have given her such grand opportunities.What challenges do first-generation students, like Latisha, face in transitioning to and succeeding in college? What contextual factors influence these risks, and what might serve as protective factors and aid development?

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Suggested Answer: Student answers will vary.