The Challenges of First-Generation College Students and How Innovative Technologies Can Help

First-generation college students, those whose parents did not attend college or earn a college degree, often face unique challenges that put them at a higher risk of dropping out. These students navigate unfamiliar academic terrain without the guidance and support that many of their peers receive from parents who have been through the process. However, with the advent of innovative technologies, there are new tools and resources available to help these students stay on track and succeed in their academic endeavors.

The Challenges Faced by First-Generation Students 

First-generation students often encounter several obstacles that can impede their academic progress:

1. Financial Strain: Many first-generation students come from low-income backgrounds, making it difficult to afford tuition, and textbooks.

2. Lack of Academic Preparedness: 50% of all college students are not prepared for college demands.  First Gen college students lack the support network, such as parental guidance on the rigors of college coursework, which increases social and emotional pressures in addition the academic demands of higher education.

3. Limited Social Capital: These students often lack access to a network of peers, mentors, and professionals who can provide support and advice.

4. Balancing Responsibilities: Many first-generation students must juggle their studies with part-time jobs and family obligations, leaving little time for academic pursuits.

5. Cultural Barriers: Navigating the cultural norms and expectations of a college environment can be challenging, especially for students from diverse backgrounds.

How Innovative Technologies Can Help

Innovative technology has profoundly changed the world.  99% of 18 – 24-year-olds report using the internet regularly each day, and 97% the internet is accessed via a smartphone. As a result of this connected generation, or Digital Native, today's college students have unique expectations compared to previous generations. They grew up with the internet, smartphones, and social media, making them tech-savvy and expecting instant access to clear and easily accessible information on an electronic device any time of day. Despite these challenges, innovative technologies offer promising solutions to support first-generation students and help them thrive in college.  

1. Online Learning Platforms: Colleges and Universities are adopting online learning platforms like Canvas to bridge the digital divide in higher education with these Digital Natives.  But, the dropout rate continues to trend downward, which indicates college students do not have the tools they need to be successful.  Innovative technologies, like StudyGOAT that are designed to simplify college life, easily integrates with Canvas to: send text reminders of important due dates and syncs their assignments and schedule with their phone/laptop calendars so students never miss a beat hustling between class and their jobs.  

2. Mentorship Programs: Digital mentorship platforms such as Mentor Collective and Top Talent Connect connect students with mentors who can offer guidance, support, and advice. This can be particularly beneficial for first-generation students who lack a support network.

3. Financial Aid and Scholarship Apps: Apps like Scholly and MyScholly help students find and apply for scholarships and financial aid opportunities, easing the financial burden of college expenses.

4. Academic Support Tools: Tools like StudyGOAT compensates for underdeveloped organizational and planning skills which helps college students manage their time, prioritize tasks, and stay on track academically, 

5. Mental Health Communities: Innovative technologies like StudyGOAT, an AI-powered organization tool is designed for students to be self-reliant managing their time, and prioritizing tasks so they can stay on track academically.  This enables nonprofits, like 10,000 degrees, that provide Mentor support can diversify their skillsets and prioritize hiring individuals who can provide social and emotional support which is crucial for students facing the pressures of college life.

6. Student Success Platforms: Platforms like Starfish and EAB Navigate help colleges identify at-risk students and provide targeted interventions. These tools use data analytics to monitor student progress and offer personalized support.

Conclusion

First-generation college students face numerous challenges that can increase their risk of dropping out. However, innovative technologies offer powerful tools to help these students overcome these obstacles. By leveraging online learning platforms, mentorship programs, financial aid apps, academic support tools, mental health apps, and student success platforms, we can create a supportive environment that empowers first-generation students to succeed and achieve their academic goals. The future of higher education lies in harnessing these technologies to ensure that all students, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive.