Factors Associated with Latina/o College Aspirations: A Structural Equation Modeling Multiple Group Comparisons Approach

Abstract

This study utilizes Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling Multiple Group Comparison Framework to explore the college aspiration of Latina/o sophomore students. The purpose of this study was to highlight the potential heterogeneity of Latinos as a whole, when gender is taken into consideration. Results indicate potential differences in how Latina/os experience their education. For Latina/os overall, parental support and friend networks are significantly related to college aspirations. The models that have been provided in this study represent a possible way of representing the actual processes that contribute to a student's college aspirations; however different model specifications are possible.