First-Generation Students: Navigating Challenges, Creating Opportunities

More Than a Classroom: A Journey of Belonging

Behind every new college student is a journey marked by courage and hope—especially for first-generation learners. According to the American Community Survey, in 2023, 36.2% of adults aged 25 and over had never enrolled in college, and 55.0% had no college degree (U.S. Census Bureau, 2025). In 2022, 23.1% of children lived in households where their parent or guardian had never enrolled in college. These statistics underscore the unique barriers first-generation students face as they embark on their educational journeys.

Why Representation Matters

Diversity in higher education is not just about inclusion—it shapes the entire learning experience. Research has shown that students in diverse academic environments demonstrate stronger critical thinking skills and are better prepared for global citizenship. When students see themselves reflected in faculty and peers, their sense of belonging and engagement deepens (Gurin, Dey, Hurtado, & Gurin, 2002).

Supporting the Whole Student

Success in higher education goes beyond academics. That’s why many institutions are prioritizing support structures such as Student Success Coaching, which has been shown to increase retention and graduation rates, particularly among underrepresented students. Programs that help learners identify the right school, the right program, and the right career path are key to closing equity gaps and fostering long-term achievement.

The Enrollment Landscape

As of the 2019–20 academic year, 25.8% of undergraduates were first-generation students. Among public 2-year colleges, that number rises to 32.7%, and at for-profit institutions, it’s 39.9%. First-generation students are also more likely to enroll at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs)—including 26.1% at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and 34.7% at Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023).

Access Is Not Enough—Guidance Is Key

It’s not just about getting students through the door. True student success happens when institutions—and their partners—focus on the entire student journey. This includes helping prospective learners explore programs that align with their goals, offering personalized guidance, and ensuring they’re set up for success from day one.

The Future Starts with Equity

The path to educational equity involves more than expanding access—it requires systemic support and culturally responsive learning environments. Institutions that commit to this vision are not only empowering their students but also shaping a more inclusive and innovative future for society as a whole.

Want to learn how to better support diverse learners and improve student outcomes? Contact us at: https://www.focusquest.com/contact-us

References

Gurin, P., Dey, E. L., Hurtado, S., & Gurin, G. (2002). Diversity and higher education: Theory and impact on educational outcomes. Harvard Educational Review, 72(3), 330–366.
Postsecondary National Policy Institute. (2023). First-generation students. https://pnpi.org/first-generation-students/
U.S. Census Bureau. (2025). American Community Survey & Current Population Survey. https://www.census.gov
National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). National Postsecondary Student Aid Survey, 2019–20. https://nces.ed.gov