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qualitative study
In my qualitative study, "Student Persistence: Exploring the Relationship Between First-Generation College Graduates and Their Home Community", I examined persistence factors for first-generation college graduates from New York City.
As a result of data analysis, three sub-themes emerged under the category overcoming barriers:
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mistakes
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drive
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persistence.
All fifteen participants in this study described an internal and external-based drive that helped them persist to graduation. Despite many setbacks and struggles they were determined to find a way to reach their goals.
mistakes
Participants made some serious mistakes! Some messed up their financial aid, others failed a whole semester. Each participant learned and grew from their mistake. Despite their failures and mistakes, all participants graduated from college!
Mistakes
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positive self-talk
Participants often repeated positive thoughts and/or phrases to stay on course.
Positive Self-Talk
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Drive
Participants pushed forward and found motivation from their growth, family, and graduation.
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