ABSTRACT
Despite the attainment of the bachelor’s degree, research has shown that first-generation graduate students still experience challenges in navigating graduate education. However, family is often acknowledged as a significant factor contributing to success in college. This qualitative study explored the role of family for first-generation master’s-level graduate students. Findings revealed education was an expectation from families, however the graduate education experience was lonely as a “first” or “only” family member to pursue the opportunities, which led to conflicting statements of pride and guilt within their family unit.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).