UC Merced Undergraduate Research Journal

First-Generation college students are the first in their families to attend college.Approximately 39% of UC undergraduates are first-generation college students. Being the first to attend college can create a lot of stress, anxiety, and pressure, leaving students to question if they can complete a four-year degree. According to psychology research, many first-generation students struggle with imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is defined as “the persistent inability to believe that one's success is deserved or has been achieved as a result of one's efforts or skills''.