The First-generation Disadvantage in Four Year College Enrollment and Completion

In the United States, a bachelor’s degree has become increasingly important in labor market outcomes and in attaining a semblance of economic security. However, not everyone has equal access to enrollment in four year colleges, or the ability to complete a bachelor’s degree. Using nationally representative data from the Educational Longitudinal Study, I analyze the effect of being a first-generation student on enrollment in a four year college and completion of a bachelor’s degree. I perform bivariate analysis as well as logistic regression analyses. My results indicate that being a first-generation student negatively impacts both enrollment and completion, net of other factors including socioeconomic status. My results do offer promising information regarding how these disadvantages might be ameliorated in the future, however.The Undergraduate Research Office- Research Scholars AwardNo embargoAcademic Major: Sociolog