UCLA

This study examined the factors that influence the persistence of first-generation Latina commuter students toward college completion. This is a qualitative study that offered insight into the experiences of first-generation Latina commuter students attending a small independent, Catholic institution composed of a predominantly Hispanic student body in an urban environment. This study adds to the existing body of literature on the persistence of first-generation Latina college students and commuter students. Institutions of higher education can benefit from learning about the lived experiences shared by the participants, the issues that confront them and how best to support them in their endeavor toward college completion.

Prospective participants were collected from the Registrar's office at Mount St. Mary's College. Mount St. Mary's College is a Catholic, liberal arts, independent institution of higher education primarily for women. There are two campuses based in Los Angeles; the downtown campus, Doheny and the baccalaureate campus, Chalon, where the study was conducted.

The study consisted of 19 first-generation Latina commuter students in their senior year. The study involved purposeful sampling utilizing a questionnaire as a screening device. Eligible participants were then invited for a one hour, semi-structured interview in which the researcher investigated pre-college experiences, institutional support received in transition and adjustment to college, challenges they overcame while in college, institutional programs, services and resources utilized, on- and off-campus networks, academic self-concept, and level of commitment to obtaining a college degree. Interviews were transcribed, coded and a comparative analysis was conducted across all participant transcripts to identify themes. Member check of transcripts was conducted to check for accuracy.

Several factors were found to influence their persistence. They include parental expectations to attend college and the emotional support they provided. As well, the aspirational, social, familial, and resistant capitals they employed to remain resilient and successful in college. These factors validate existing theoretical frameworks. While the participants felt they had to navigate college on their own, they found attending college opened doors to their future and a desire to make a difference in their families and communities.