Personal Support and Its Impact on the Mental Health of First-Generation and Transfer Students

First-generation college students (FGCS) face unique challenges compared to non-first-generation peers. Lack of personal, emotional, financial, or psychological support may create difficulties adapting to college. The focus on affordability in higher education and lowering the cost of a bachelor's degree has also made the transfer process an essential part of degree completion for many, with only 41% of transfer students pursuing a bachelor's degree will achieve that goal. Research has made the connection that diminished personal support from parental figures may impact the mental health of FGCS transfer students, leading to higher dropout, lower retention, and lower degree completion rates. Students who experienced increased personal support might experience fewer mental health issues, resulting in a higher chance of degree completion. Future research implications include prioritizing support systems and mental health services to aid FGCS and transfer students lacking personal support in degree completion.