Family Engagement: A Game Changer for First-Generation College Students
For many first-generation college students, the path to achieving higher education is strewn with obstacles. These young adults often find themselves navigating a complex system without the benefit of familial guidance that their peers may take for granted. However, an increasing number of educational institutions are recognizing the pivotal role that family engagement plays in promoting student success. By involving families in the educational journey—despite their own unfamiliarity with the college landscape—colleges can significantly enhance retention rates and foster a sense of belonging among first-gen students.
A staggering 56% of the U.S. student population is comprised of first-generation college students. Unfortunately, research reveals that these individuals have higher dropout rates, particularly within the critical first two years of college. Common challenges faced by first-gen students include feelings of isolation, financial instability, and difficulties adapting to academic expectations.
Empowering Families to Support Their First-Gen Students
The need for family engagement is particularly pronounced among first-generation students. A recent study indicated that these students often rely on their families for support more than their continuing-generation peers do. In fact, 59% of first-gen families engage in daily conversations with their students, compared to only 41% of families of continuing-generation students.
Despite this reliance, an “information void” exists for many first-gen families. Unlike those with prior college experience, these families are often unaware of essential processes, including how to apply for financial aid, understand academic expectations, and navigate campus life. When families are provided with accessible resources and clear information, they become more capable of guiding their students through the myriad challenges of college life.
Renée Marquez, the Assistant Director of Parent & Family Programs at the University of Arizona, emphasizes the importance of clear communication in bridging this information gap. She notes that platforms like CampusESP are effective in facilitating communication, empowering families to direct their students to experts who can provide necessary support and guidance.
Filling the Information Gap for First-Gen Families
One critical finding is that families of first-generation students do not need to have all the answers; they just need to stay connected. A report from CampusESP revealed that an impressive 76% of first-gen families desire more direct communication from their institutions. However, many are unsure about what questions to ask. For example, first-generation families exhibit a notable 21% knowledge gap compared to their continuing-generation counterparts when it comes to accessing vital information, such as tuition costs, financial aid, and account services.
Javier Flores, the Vice President of Enrollment Management at Texas Women’s University and a former first-gen student himself, speaks to the challenges faced by families in supporting their students. He recalls, “My father was illiterate, so he was not able to support me in the traditional sense. However, these parents still want to help navigate the college experience.” He suggests that offering various types of content can better equip families to support their students in a manner that suits their individual learning styles.
Tap Into the Communication Preferences of First-Gen Families
Understanding communication preferences is key to effective family engagement. While emails remain the most commonly used communication method by educational institutions, a significant preference for text messaging has emerged among first-gen families. In fact, approximately 47% of these families named text messaging as their preferred communication method, yet only 18% of institutions currently utilize this option. This discrepancy illustrates a significant gap in meeting the needs of first-gen families.
The Positive Impact of Family Engagement on Student Retention
The overarching goal of engaging families in the educational process is fostering student success—a goal that is especially pertinent for first-generation students. In a comprehensive case study investigating the relationship between family engagement and student retention outcomes, findings demonstrated that students whose parents received regular updates through platforms like CampusESP were notably more likely to remain enrolled in their programs. The data indicated an average enhancement of 8.3% in retention rates for these students.
Further studies from Auburn University and Duquesne University revealed that parent engagement exerts an even greater positive effect on the retention of first-gen students.
Ultimately, family engagement isn’t merely beneficial; it’s essential for the success of first-generation students. By providing suitable resources, fostering open lines of communication, and building supportive partnerships with families, educational institutions can create environments where first-gen students not only enroll in college but also thrive and graduate successfully. The commitment to enhancing family engagement can yield exceptional outcomes, breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success in higher education.
