Engaging First-Generation College Students in Fraternity/Sorority Life
January 27, 2010
Description
First-generation college students are commonly defined as those students who are the first in their family to attend college. Understanding their experiences and characteristics can help institutions improve student retention rates, campus engagement, and academic achievement. Furthermore, by recognizing and embracing the needs and desires of first-generation college students, the fraternity/sorority community can enhance their recruitment and membership development efforts. In this unique program, a Doctoral student researching first-generation college students will share important data and research outlining significant implications that first-generation college students have throughout our campuses and fraternity/sorority communities. Our discussion will open your mind on creative initiatives and strategies that will educate, impact, and involve first-generation college students within the fraternity/sorority community like never before.
As a result of participating in this program, participants will be able to
-
define and raise important awareness about first-generation college student backgrounds, characteristics, and needs.
-
discuss current empirical research focused on first-generation college students, gaps in the literature, and implications for fraternity/sorority communities.
-
outline and benchmark how institutions and communities are meeting the needs of first-generation college students through innovative programming.
-
discuss how fraternity/sorority life can impact their recruitment, retention, and membership development initiatives by targeting first-generation college students.
-
develop programming and services to meet the needs of first-generation college students.
Kevin Snyder is a Doctoral student at the University of Central Florida and is completing his dissertation research on retention factors for first-generation college students. Kevin is also a professional speaker with CAMPUSPEAK as well as a university administrator who has held previous roles in Fraternity/Sorority Life, Orientation, Student Activities, Residence Life, and Academic Advising. He is a member of Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and a former traveling consultant.
Primary: Researcher |
A fraternity/sorority advisor uses research to guide practice. The advisor assesses the needs of the fraternity/sorority community and engages constituents in strategic planning to set goals for ongoing development and to provide programs and resources for the benefit of chapters and members; the impact of those programs and resources is also assessed. The advisor maintains an awareness and knowledge of how current issues and student affairs research impact the undergraduate student experience and fraternity/sorority community.
Secondary: Innovator |
A fraternity/sorority advisor implements new programs that benefit community members. An advisor promotes the practical application and effective use of technology to communicate with members, support their positive use of online communities, provide online educational opportunities, and promote the fraternity/sorority experience.