LEADing an educational and social movement for first-generation college students

First-generation college students face numerous challenges that can impact academic success and are less likely to participate in the “Big 6” high impact college experiences. This retrospective mixed-methods study examines the impact of a first-generation college support program, the LEAD Scholars program. Comparing LEAD alumni (n = 88) with a national sample (n = 29,560), alumni were more likely to participate in nearly all Gallup-Purdue Big 6 high-impact practices. Follow-up interviews with alumni (n=5) identified key impactful experiences (e.g., awareness building, peer support, professor support) as well as areas for improvement (e.g., expanding career and emotional support).