First to Go to College and First to “Go Greek:” Engagement in Academically Oriented Activities by Senior Year First Generation Students Who Are Fraternity/Sorority Members

Abstract

Using National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) data, this study examined levels of engagement in academically oriented activities by college seniors who experience college as both first-generation students and fraternity/sorority members. On four of five NSSE scales, first-generation college students who are members reported higher levels of engagement than those who are not members, and members and non-members who are not first-generation. Because engagement in academically oriented activities positively influences student success, knowing students’ self-reported participation has implications for practitioners.