Success and Challenges of First-Generation College Students Integration into Longwood University: LSEM Effectiveness in College Transition
Presented by Dr. David Davino
Data was collected on 10 first-generation college students (FGCS) enrolled in a Longwood Seminar (LSEM) class designed to assist FGCS with college transition and integration into the college environment. FGCS perceived strengths, barriers to success, and efficacy of LSEM in helping college transition was investigated. Results indicated that perceived knowledge of processes and resources and confidence in their own ability increased as measured by a survey given on their first day and last day of class. Survey and open-ended questions on the last day of class indicated that LSEM was beneficial in increasing their understanding of financial, social and academic resources on campus. Journal reflection questions identified themes of optimism, social support, compassion, personal responsibility, strong work ethic, and the importance of family in their lives as strengths and resources for FGCS whereas lack of parental knowledge about college and feelings of guilt about detaching from the family system indicated challenges during their transition to college.
Presenter Bio:
David Davino, Ph.D., LPC is a counselor and training coordinator at Longwood University’s Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) where he provides counseling services and oversees the undergraduate and graduate on-site clinical training program. David is a counselor and licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Virginia. His dissertation topic was on first-generation college students and perceived resiliency.
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