Literature Review Blog #5

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Citation

Rosanna A. Reyes. Proving Them Wrong. MA/MS Thesis. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 2012. 

Summary

This dissertation follows the stories of 5 first generation Latino women who despite the disadvantages they faced, were able to succeed in college. It outlines in each case what factors may have contributed to their individual successes.

Author

Rosanna A. Reyes - Associate Dean and Dean of First Generation Initiatives at Williams College.

Key Terms

Quotes

"Risk factors are the issues for which the participants have no control over much like the environment (i.e. inferior schools, culture of violence and or lack of parental involvement)."(Reyes 21)

"Also, the teachers [in Peru] cared more about your grades and they knew you on like a personal basis. So if they knew if you were doing badly, they would call your house right away. Whereas here, your grade is this and your parents are coming to pick up your report card this that, and that’s when they are going to find out."(Reyes 70)

"While in college I have had many emotional breakdowns. I’ve felt the pressure of being an adult and having no help or directions but I’m so proud of myself because I’ve worked so hard for what I have."(Reyes 92)

"Samantha spoke about education not being an option but an obligation in her home."(Reyes 133)

Value

This dissertation provides insight into the lives of first-generation students who actually defy the odds and succeed in college. By observing the journeys of these students, you can see what common factors helped them along their journey. This information can be used to help many other first generation students.