Video: Who Do First-Generation College Students Turn to for Support? Implications for Research and Practice

How can understanding the support networks of first-generation college students help to better shape the resources and supports colleges provide to them?

In a recent webinar, CCRC researchers discussed their findings from a study of the support networks of first-generation students in California and who they turn to for help. Through survey data gathered across four higher education institutions, the researchers cataloged the people college students turn to for support and the kinds of support they seek during their first year of college.

CCRC researchers Hoori Santikian Kalamkarian and Melissa Herman explained how students rely on family for emotional support but often turn to their colleges for formal support. Advising and enrollment staff from Cerritos College, one of the colleges involved in the study, discussed how colleges can use these networks to better support their students.

“When you’re outreaching to these students, you have the potential to be working with their entire family and friend network, too,” said Raquel Lizarraga-Christensen, school relations coordinator at Cerritos College.

A recording of the webinar can be accessed below, along with the accompanying PowerPoint slides. An information sheet is available as well.