UMN researchers co-author first-of-its-kind book on the experiences of first-generation graduate students

University of Minnesota researchers, Dr. Rashné Jehangir, Dr. Kelly Collins, and Dr. Tai Do, a recent PhD graduate from the Department of Educational Psychology's psychological foundations of education program, have co-authored Decoding the Academy: A Roadmap for First-generation College Students Through Graduate Education with Dr. Terra Molengraff from the University of Michigan.

This book, released by FirstGen Forward, is the first of its kind to explore the multifaceted experiences of first-generation graduate students through nine essential themes. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the challenges these students face through first-person accounts and detailed vignettes from 29 first-generation college graduate students. As a resource for these students, Decoding the Academy: A Roadmap for First-generation College Students Through Graduate Education offers actionable recommendations to improve support systems within higher education. The authors provide a roadmap for educators, advisors, and institutions to also create more inclusive and supportive environments for all students.

For those interested in learning more about this book, Decoding the Academy: A Roadmap for First-generation College Students Through Graduate Education is now available on FirstGen Forward.