UCSF

In order to attend college, first-generation nursing students face unique obstacles, such as recruitment, mentoring, and retention. This study describes a sample of first-generation nursing students who will be able to fill the persistent gaps in rural patient care to assist the expanding RN workforce. Specifically, the study details the physical, mental, social, economic, and diversity challenges rural first-generation college nursing students face. This study was conducted at a rural community college in a Medically Underserved and Health Professional Shortage Area. A total of 87 students were invited to participate from the first- and second-year cohorts of a rural associate degree RN program. Using standard questions from an already-validated national survey, a cross-sectional survey was constructed. 70% of applicants were the first member of their family to attend college. The decision to attend college was influenced by parental and guardian encouragement in addition to personal motivation. More than 70% of respondents who applied to nursing school were uncertain or did not receive mentorship. At the beginning of nursing school, 15.9% of students felt a close relationship with the faculty, while 46.3% felt out of place. Significantly more first-generation college students (88%) than non-first-generation students (12%) had a strong interest (88%) in working in a medically underserved area. Using the open-ended survey questions, a number of themes regarding the significance of being a first-generation student were identified, including breaking the cycle of low educational attainment, financial challenges, empowerment and pride, pressure and uncertainty, as well as gratitude and motivation.