An investigation of first-generation student experiences and their career development

The goal of this study was to analyze the student experiences and career development of students who identify as first-generation and who are members of the Flying First Program (FFP) at Rowan University. The qualitative study included one focus group consisting of first-generation students who are involved with the FFP and a second focus group consisting of first-generation students who are not involved with FFP. The purpose of this thesis is to assess first-generation students\u27 experiences, challenges, and resources related to their career development. Currently there has been limited utilization of qualitative data collected regarding students\u27 perspectives and their experiences and challenges they face with their career development (Evans, 2016, Tate, Caperton, Kaiser, Pruitt, White, & Hall, 2015). As a result of the study the researcher will suggest recommendations from focus group results for the First-Generation Task Force Committee at Rowan to potentially help implement future career development programming for first-generation students