New Program Helps 1st-Generation Latino College Students

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Even though more Latinos are obtaining college education than ever before, they still lag behind other groups in obtaining four-year degrees. Through 2014, just 15% of Latinos (age 25-29) have a bachelor’s degree or higher.

At Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ (55.6% Latino population), more than one-third of students currently enrolled in higher education are the first in their family to attend college. It has also been found that nearly 90% often spend up to six years in college; many never graduate with a degree. A new program looks to change that, The Daily Targum reports.

RU-1st is a new program focused on increasing graduation rates of first-generation, high-need or underrepresented students. The program was started in the hopes of “sparking conversations on issues of equity and access on campus.” A committee spearheaded by Rutgers Chancellor Richard L. Edwards offers programs, courses and robust infrastructure developed in the University for a diverse population of first-generation or underrepresented students.

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“Rutgers remains a diverse institution, we want to make sure every constituent has the knowledge they need to succeed,” said James Whitney, assistant vice chancellor of Undergraduate Academic Affairs. “We recognize that more support might be necessary for our students who aren’t supported by state or federal grants.”

The RU-1st initiative was started to find help for Rutgers students who come from disadvantaged background who may not be able to receive funding from traditional sources. The program also offers a “liaison” at every school or department for these students if they ever are in need of help.

“We are looking at these high-risk populations and trying to help them stay and improve their rates toward retention and graduation,” Whitney said. “We believe we’ve improved coordination and sharing with high level staff and providing communities for students to come together.”