Asian student and sources of stress.
AAPIFGCSs face seven main barriers when pursuing college:
Discouragement from Anti-College Culture
Many AAPI first-generation prospective college students are from low-income communities and high schools where pursuing college is not typical. These students experience constant discouragement from their peers, teachers, and counselors.
Financial Constraints
Cost of attendance and the amount of financial aid awarded limits AAPIFGCSs’ selection of colleges. Their financial limitation significantly influences both their decision to pursue a degree and where they choose to apply. Many AAPIFGCSs doubt their ability to afford a degree. If they choose to apply, they tend to apply to less expensive schools that are close to home.
Financial Obligation to Family
AAPIFGCSs are usually under pressure to financially contribute to their family while maintaining their academic course load. This forces them to work while in school.
Navigating College Alone
Many AAPIFGCSs apply to colleges and financial aid without guidance from parents. The anti-college culture often leaves students without reliable resources (teachers or counselors) for guidance through the college application process.
Obtaining Degrees
Less than one-third of AAPIFGCSs enrolled in community college successfully obtain a degree within a six-year period.
Being Academically Underprepared
Many AAPIFGCSs are academically underprepared for college-level coursework due to their upbringing in low-performing schools and low-income households.
Excess Pressure
Parents of AAPIFGCSs generally hold high expectations for their college-bound children, which motivates them to excel in school. However, when these expectations are not accompanied by sufficient parental support, students become discouraged and anxious.
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References:
Harvey, T. (2014). Cost and Financial Aid Increasingly Influence Students’ Choice of College. Chronicle Of Higher Education, 60(26), 12.
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Understanding Pan-Asian Students 