ERIC Number: ED667823
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2021
Pages: 190
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-5229-7108-3
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
"Do I Even Belong Here?" An Examination of Impostor Phenomenon among First-Generation College Seniors and the Perceived Factors That Contribute to Resilience and Persistence on the Journey to Graduation
Yvonne Tracy Ayesiga
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, University of Portland
This mixed methods study explored the lived experiences of first-generation college seniors to develop a deeper understanding of the presence of impostor phenomenon during their college journey. Through a social constructivist lens, this study focused on the lived experiences of first-generation college seniors. This resulted in the understanding of how impostor phenomenon manifests among first-generation students and how perceived experiences of resilience and persistence aided the first- generation students on the journey to graduation. This study defined first-generation students as those whose parents did not attend college at all. The study sample consisted of 51 first-generation college seniors who completed the survey, six also participating in interviews. Data were analyzed through analysis of survey feedback consisting of three scales used to measure impostor phenomenon, resilience and persistence, as well as key themes that arose through descriptive statistics, interviews, and coding. Findings revealed first-generation college students experience impostor phenomenon and struggle with the question, "Do I belong here?" In addition, the findings showed a need to learn how to be confident, overcome self-doubt, navigate campus culture, and ask for help. Recommendations emerged for future first-year first- generation students, parents of first-generation students, professors, and financial aid counselors. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Self Concept, First Generation College Students, College Seniors, Psychological Patterns, Resilience (Psychology), Academic Persistence, Student Experience
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A