"There are Obstacles... but We Can Do It": Latina/o/x Activate Community Cultural Wealth and Funds of Knowledge in the College Transition
Author(s): Contreras, L. R. & Kiyama, J. M.
Citation: Contreras, L. R. & Kiyama, J. M. (2022). "There are Obstacles... but We Can Do It": Latina/o/x Activate Community Cultural Wealth and Funds of Knowledge in the College Transition. Journal of The First-Year Experience & Students in Transition, 34(1), 9-26.
Abstract
This qualitative research study with Latina/o/x students and families who participated in a college outreach program found families imparted community cultural wealth and funds of knowledge that their children activated as they transitioned to college. The students experienced challenges due to immigration status, finances, and cultural incongruity transitioning to college. Our findings demonstrated Latina/o/x students are able to transition to college successfully by relying on their drive and the hope instilled in them through messaging from their families. Families imparted funds of knowledge and forms of community cultural wealth, including aspirational, navigational, social, and familial capital. The students then activated their funds of knowledge and community cultural wealth to overcome the obstacles they encountered in the college transition. Our research connected funds of knowledge and community cultural wealth by demonstrating Latina/o/x families and students draw on both during the college transition. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
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