| As the Latino population progresses from minority to majority status in the United States, there still remains the typical and historical pattern of failure in higher education associated with this minority status. According to the 2010 Census, approximately 16% of the total U.S. population or 50.5 million people have self-identified themselves as Latino. Even though the Latino population is growing, the Latino educational pipeline is suffering as students choose not to pursue their education further. The aim of this study was critically examine the lived experience of second generation first-time degree-seeking Latino undergraduate students and their academic success from the initial advising process, their use of resources, as well as tools and planning that were made available for them. To examine the perceived inequalities and radicalized barriers as they navigate the educational pipeline leading to the completion of a college degree.;The results from the descriptive analysis of the qualitative data from the student interviews indicated the students in the study had a strong desire to succeed, perceived a strong parental support and struggled with support from the campus environment, and stated they were not strong in academic preparation to attend college.;The recommendations for future studies and practices should include a greater understanding of the second generation first-time degree-seeking Latino undergraduate students. The important role of a freshman advising unit per college with advisors who will act as mentors to be supportive in the academic success of Latino students. More research is recommended on the second generation first-time degree-seeking Latino undergraduate student's relationship with the campus environment integration. Reaching out to Latino students by increasing institutional support with the outreach and hiring of Hispanic faculty is a specific recommendation worthy of consideration in the effort to ensure greater success for Latino students.;Keywords: Latino, second generation, first-time.. |
