UVic First Gen

First-Generation/Working-Class Students in Higher Education: Understanding their Experiences, their Struggles, and their
Strategies to Mitigate Potential Disadvantages in Order to Foster Success (February 9th 2024)

While the notion of “privilege” is a common topic of conversation in Canadian higher education, students from less economically privileged backgrounds are often left out of conversations about equity, diversity and inclusion. Existing research shows how one’s socioeconomic background affects one’s likelihood of success in higher education. Specifically, these students are at higher risk of abandoning their programs of studies, if they even make it to the university at all. Even after they have been admitted to university, these students’ struggles continue without supports to navigate the unfamiliar environment. The all-day conference pertains to issues related to first-generation/Working-Class Students.