ABQ Times

Two professors from the University of New Mexico's College of Population Health, Claudia Pratesi, PhD, and Tammy Thomas, PhD, are working to improve support for first-generation college students. Their research is part of a Student Experience Project fellowship aimed at understanding these students' experiences.

The professors conducted five focus groups with volunteers from the College of Population Health to gather insights on first-generation student experiences at UNM. These sessions revealed how these students navigate institutional challenges and highlighted concerns unique to their college journey.

Pratesi and Thomas emphasize recognizing and building upon the inherent strengths of first-generation students in their academic pursuits. They explored students' sense of belonging in the classroom and at the university, assessing how being a first-generation student influences mental health, academic experiences, and persistence in education.

Their research found that many first-generation students juggle family caregiver roles alongside academic responsibilities. This dual role affects both financial resources and time management. Students often face these challenges without family members who understand the university system from prior experience.

A significant finding is that substantial support is needed before entering university life. Many first-generation students struggle with complex systems like financial aid and credit requirements. Graduate students noted a lack of clear information about academic expectations during their undergraduate years.

Thomas shares a personal connection to this work: "This is a meaningful subject to me because I am a first-generation college student."

Pratesi and Thomas are developing policy recommendations for the College regarding first-generation students. These include peer mentoring programs, organizing gatherings for first-generation students, and creating better systems for connecting them with funding opportunities. Their findings will be presented to Pamela Cheek, PhD, Associate Provost for Student Success.

The professors plan to share their results at conferences and pursue publication in academic journals. Their goal is to understand student experiences better and improve university systems.

Both educators remain committed to enhancing the experience of first-generation students through new educational approaches that ensure success and link them to campus resources. Their work aims to create an inclusive environment that acknowledges diverse experiences.