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How the Ingroup Representation of First-Generation Students in Residence Halls Predicts Short-Term and Long-Term College Success

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Listed:
  • Nicholas A. Bowman

    (University of Iowa)

  • Genia M. Bettencourt

    (University of Memphis)

  • Sora Moon

    (University of Iowa)

Abstract

Despite a burgeoning literature on first-generation college student success, little is known about how the presence of first-generation or continuing-generation peers may facilitate desired outcomes among first-generation students. Moreover, two theoretical traditions lead to contrasting predictions about the potential impact of the representation of other first-generation students. The present study explored this issue within a sample of 4154 first-year, first-generation students who lived on 159 floors in 12 residence halls. Across a variety of statistical models that sought to reduce selection bias, students with a first-generation roommate have lower retention and graduation rates than students with a continuing-generation roommate. Students with a first-generation roommate also have more modest social networks within the university dining halls, but no significant relationships are observed for first-semester or first-year GPA. The link between the proportion of first-generation floormates and success outcomes is rarely significant and yields inconsistent results across analyses.

Suggested Citation

  • Nicholas A. Bowman & Genia M. Bettencourt & Sora Moon, 2025. "How the Ingroup Representation of First-Generation Students in Residence Halls Predicts Short-Term and Long-Term College Success," Research in Higher Education, Springer;Association for Institutional Research, vol. 66(1), pages 1-27, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:reihed:v:66:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s11162-024-09833-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s11162-024-09833-3
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