Environmental Influences on Career Choice Behavior: The Low-Income, First-Generation College Student Perspective
Advisor Information
Paul Barnes
Location
Milo Bail Student Center Dodge Room B
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
8-3-2013 9:30 AM
End Date
8-3-2013 9:45 AM
Abstract
This study endeavors to examine the barriers and supports that influence the career selection and implementation of low-income, first-generation college students. Using qualitative methodologies, the researcher interviewed eight college sophomores whose experiences are embedded in a need-based learning community. The semi-structured interviews were recorded and transcribed in Fall 2012, with data analysis taking place during Spring 2013. The researcher will present emerging themes and potential implications for counseling practice.The presentation will share results of the study through the perspective of social cognitive career theory (SCCT), an integrative model used in career counseling to conceptualize environmental variables that affect career choice. Career counseling has evolved to become more holistic and sensitive to multicultural differences. Research of contextual influences in the career development of college students has focused on race, ethnicity, and gender, with little recognition of other multicultural factors, such as socioeconomic status (i.e., income, education). Lowincome, first-generation college students represent a significant at-risk segment of undergraduate enrollment, yet questions remain about the career development of this population. Increasing our understanding of this population will guide future research and culturally-sensitive counseling interventions, along with furthering the SCCT literature.
Environmental Influences on Career Choice Behavior: The Low-Income, First-Generation College Student Perspective
Milo Bail Student Center Dodge Room B
This study endeavors to examine the barriers and supports that influence the career selection and implementation of low-income, first-generation college students. Using qualitative methodologies, the researcher interviewed eight college sophomores whose experiences are embedded in a need-based learning community. The semi-structured interviews were recorded and transcribed in Fall 2012, with data analysis taking place during Spring 2013. The researcher will present emerging themes and potential implications for counseling practice.The presentation will share results of the study through the perspective of social cognitive career theory (SCCT), an integrative model used in career counseling to conceptualize environmental variables that affect career choice. Career counseling has evolved to become more holistic and sensitive to multicultural differences. Research of contextual influences in the career development of college students has focused on race, ethnicity, and gender, with little recognition of other multicultural factors, such as socioeconomic status (i.e., income, education). Lowincome, first-generation college students represent a significant at-risk segment of undergraduate enrollment, yet questions remain about the career development of this population. Increasing our understanding of this population will guide future research and culturally-sensitive counseling interventions, along with furthering the SCCT literature.