Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019
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Date of Graduation
Spring 2015
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Department
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Advisor(s)
Matthew B. Ezzell
Abstract
The first year of college is often a fresh start for students. For many, it is the first time away from home where students will have freedom to make their own decisions. During this year students gain new experiences, new knowledge, and a new understanding of themselves. However, it is commonly known that the transition into college is often accompanied by many challenges, including, homesickness, depression, inability to fit in, and financial instability. Often, students’ identities can influence the types of challenges they encounter throughout this transition. This study determines correlations between five social identities and challenges that first year students face. These identities are: gender, race/ethnicity, social class, sexual orientation and religious affiliation. In order to explore how these identities influence students’ transitions into college, and investigate students’ involvement in on-campus organizations that may aid in navigating these challenges, I used both the results of a general survey administered to current undergraduate students at a large, state school in the southeastern United States, which I call Happy Mood University, followed by a focus group session with eleven participants. This study demonstrates that inequalities that exist in the larger culture pertaining to gender, race/ethnicity, social class, and sexual orientation pervade into college culture, and thus influence the transition into college for many students. This project helps us understand barriers to integration into college life and offers avenues for change. By determining these correlations, professionals in higher education can address common challenges and provide more successful transitions for first year college students.
Recommended Citation
Millet, Holly K., "The year of change: Challenges faced by first year students based on individual identities" (2015). Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019. 102.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/honors201019/102
