How Environmental Factors Affect CAMP Students’ College Experiences and Academic Success Emily Lugo Rosales † Project Mentor(s): Pamela McMullin-Messier, PhD This research expands on existing studies of educational disparities by examining how environmental factors—specifically rural geographic challenges, school resources, and family or community support— shape the college experiences and academic success of students in the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). CAMP is a federally funded initiative supporting students from migrant and seasonal farmworker backgrounds as they transition into higher education. The study explores three main questions: (1) What barriers do CAMP students face as a result of rural geographic disparities? (2) How do family and community support systems vary across socioeconomic groups? (3) What interventions could address these disparities and enhance college access and persistence for CAMP students? To answer these questions, surveys and interviews were conducted with CAMP students from Central Washington University and the University of Washington. The mixed-methods design captures both quantitative and qualitative dimensions of their college experiences, focusing on how environmental and social factors influence academic outcomes. Quantitative data from 40 survey participants were analyzed using R statistical software to identify patterns in socioeconomic background, educational resources, and support networks. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with 10 participants, providing richer insight into their personal experiences and perspectives Preliminary findings suggest that rural CAMP students face unique challenges related to geographic isolation and limited institutional support, but benefit greatly from strong familial and community ties. The results will contribute to developing targeted policies and interventions to improve higher education access, persistence, and success among rural, first-generation college students. Presentation Type: Oral Presentation (May 20, 9:30am–5:00pm) Keywords: CAMP Students, Family and Community Support, Environmental Factors SOURCE Form ID: 22
159
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator