Contrasting Challenges of Urban, Suburban, and Rural First-Generation College Students to Improve Retention Programs

The success of first-generation college students (FGCS) is critical to higher education’s role in promoting equity and social mobility among underrepresented populations. Although research on FGCS exists, a comprehensive literature review demonstrates an overgeneralization characteristics the presentation data. This study reviewed from 2000 through 2020 identify barriers academic reported by urban, suburban, rural settings. Findings show varying challenges across settings three themes: issues arising preparation, persistence, non-academic influences. implications this guide postsecondary institutions creating more effective retention programs address faces given setting. By illuminating differences challenges, combats overgeneralizations diverse geographically dispersed population students.