What question did this study set out to answer?

To explore the career learning experiences and protective factors valued by middle school prospective first-generation college students.

April 20, 2026Journal of Career Development

Building Aspirations Through Supportive Systems: Understanding the Career Learning Experiences of Middle School Prospective First-Generation College Students

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To explore the career learning experiences and protective factors valued by middle school prospective first-generation college students.
Conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 eighth graders identified as prospective first-generation college students.
Analyzed data within the framework of social cognitive career theory and ecological risk and resilience theory.
Examined the impact of an out-of-school university-sponsored program on participants' career readiness.
Participants emphasized the importance of family, mentorship, and joy in their career learning processes.
Identified key protective factors that support career decision-making.
Revealed implications for enhancing college and career readiness programs and school-family-community partnerships.

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Implication

This instrumental case study reveals protective factors in career learning for first-generation college students, suggesting enhancements for support systems.

Cite This Study

Schoonover et al. (2026) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69e5c3ec03c29399140299dc https://doi.org/10.1177/08948453261444291

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Implication

This instrumental case study reveals protective factors in career learning for first-generation college students, suggesting enhancements for support systems.

Building Aspirations Through Supportive Systems: Understanding the Career Learning Experiences of Middle School Prospective First-Generation College Students

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

Building Aspirations Through Supportive Systems: Understanding the Career Learning Experiences of Middle School Prospective First-Generation College Students

Key Points

Discussion

Implication

Cite This Study

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