Factors Influencing Optimism for Degree Attainment in Latino First-Generation College Students

Abstract

Latino first-generation college students face a unique set of challenges that are not part of the college experience of their non-first-generation counterparts. Nonetheless, many Latinos remain optimistic about overcoming barriers that might impede their educational pursuits. The present study was aimed at exploring factors that contribute to Latino students’ positive expectations for degree attainment. Utilizing data from a large online survey administered at a four-year Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), we found that competency beliefs and persistent determination to overcome challenges significantly influences students’ optimism. In addition, strong connections with institutional agents (largely, faculty and student affairs staff) emerged as significant contributing factors. Students who reported having close relationships with their parents also reported a greater degree of optimism about postsecondary success. Implications for programs and services to improve the college experiences of Latino first-generation student, enhance optimism, and increase retention are discussed.

Latinas at a Hispanic-serving institution: Resilient resistance affirming race–gender expectancies for college attainment.

“…These practices often link familismo to confianza, a form of mutually trusting peer mentorship that increases institutional attachment (Gonzales, 2019). These familial practices have also shown to buffer systemic inequities in ways that contribute to Latinx college students’ positive expectations for degree attainment (Romo et al, 2020). The literature have been urging universities to employ familismo-centric strategies to develop culturally responsive institutions to better serve Latinx undergraduate populations (Gonzales, 2019; Hernández, 2015; Saenz & Ponjuan, 2009).…”