University of Twente Student Theses
The experiences and sense of belonging of first-generation students in the transition to working life
Voigt, Josepha (2024) The experiences and sense of belonging of first-generation students in the transition to working life.
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| Abstract: | First-generation students (FGS) are more likely to have negative experiences in the educational environment than continuous-generation students (CGS). Family background can influence cultural norms and professional experiences. FGS tend to be more interdependent, while universities and workplaces often emphasise independence, leading to a lower sense of belonging for FGS than CGS. A sense of belonging can impact academic performance, mental health, self-esteem, and motivation, and it is, therefore, an important aspect to investigate. This study examined the transition from FGS to working life. Weekly diary entries and questionnaires were used to collect data from psychology students during their compulsory internship in their Master’s year. An independent T-test compared FGS and CGS regarding their experiences and sense of belonging. A Pearson correlation examined the relationship between negative experiences and sense of belonging. A linear mixed model analysed the trend of sense of belonging during the internship. In contrast to the literature, no differences between FGS and CGS regarding negative experiences and sense of belonging were found. This suggests that the problems experienced by FGS during their time at university do not continue into their professional lives. However, a significant correlation was found between negative experiences and a lower sense of belonging, regardless of student status. Internship supervisors should, therefore, create a supportive environment to minimise negative experiences and strengthen the sense of belonging. No linear trend for a sense of belonging was found; further studies should investigate the sense of belonging and influencing factors in more detail. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 77 psychology |
| Programme: | Psychology MSc (66604) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/102053 |
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