Analysis of First-Generation College Students at One Japanese University

Session Abstract: The purpose of this session is to use a survey of graduates from a private university in Japan to clarify whether there are any characteristics in the learning experiences and learning outcomes of first-generation students (hereafter referred to as “FG”). The data used in this study are from a survey conducted by the Center for University Research at Waseda University, a private university in Japan, on graduates from 2007 to 2010 (number of responses: n = 4,625, response rate: 12.1%). We analyzed the results of the survey of graduates, which asked about their career paths before entering university, while they were at university, and after graduating, by cross-tabulating the responses of FG and nonFG students and those from the Tokyo metropolitan area (Tokyo and three prefectures surrounding it) and those from other areas. This session will provide an opportunity to gather and discuss information about FG students based on a valuable survey of Japanese university graduates.

Keywords: alumni survey, first-generation college students, regional disparities, Japanese university

Contributing Authors: Takeshi Endo, Ph.D. – Assistant Professor, Center for Higher Education Studies, Waseda University