Navigating Higher Education as Poor & Working Class Students

• What percentage of low-income students graduate with a bachelor’s degree by age 24?

• 12%

• 30%

• 50%

• 73%

Answer explanation

Only 12% of students from low-income families earn a degree by 24, while 73% of high-income students graduate, highlighting economic barriers in higher education (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).

 

Which factor contributes the MOST to working-class students’ struggle with social integration?

• Higher academic expectations

• Limitless financial aid

• Working longer hours

• Preference for online learning

Answer explanation

Many working-class students work long hours, leaving less time for extracurricular activities and social engagement, which are key to college success (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).

 

Which strategy can colleges implement to better support working-class students?

• Increasing student loan options

• Eliminating financial aid

• Providing more advanced coursework

• Encouraging first-generation student networks

Answer explanation

Creating peer networks and mentorship programs specifically for working-class and first-generation students can significantly improve their college experience (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).

 

What is a major challenge that working-class students face in higher education?

• Lower sense of belonging

• Poor academic performance

• Lack of career goals

• Lack of motivation

Answer explanation

Working-class students often feel less connected to their campus community compared to middle- and upper-class peers, impacting their college experience (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).

 

What percentage of first-generation college students come from low-income families?

• 25%

• 50%

• 70%

• 85%

Answer explanation

About 70% of first-generation students come from families earning $25,000 or less annually, making financial challenges a major barrier to success (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).

Many working-class students work longer hours, which can limit their participation in campus activities.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Research shows that working-class students often work more hours to support themselves, leaving less time for social and academic engagement (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).

 

Academic advisors can play a key role in helping working-class students navigate college life.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Advisors can help students adapt to college culture, connect them to resources, and validate their experiences to improve retention and success experience (Soria & Bultmann, 2014).