From College and Career to Postsecondary Readiness Counseling: Latino, First-generation Perspectives in Arizona

Abstract

How do first-generation Latino students work with their college and career center to prepare for postsecondary opportunities? What factors influence first-generation Latino students’ postsecondary choices? This qualitative study focuses on one Arizona high school. It draws on data from five first-generation, Latino students and one college and career counselor’s virtual interviews to share student experiences working with their college and career center for either a college or workforce pathway. The student data highlights overlooked needs and influences that impact their postsecondary readiness, access, and success. First-generation Latino students can benefit from their college and career center implementing funds of knowledge, community and parent partnerships, professional development to increase pathway knowledge for all school staff, and collaborations within school programs to support career exploration and skill building.