Navigating Higher Education: Insights from First‐Generation Doctoral Students

Abstract

Access to higher education is a form of capital that is not always equally distributed. First‐generation doctoral students (FGDSs) face unique challenges and barriers which can make it difficult for them to navigate academic and institutional structures and access key resources and support. We present preliminary findings from interviews with 8 FGDS participants who pursue doctoral degrees in the field of information science in Canada. Interviews focused on identifying FGDSs' information practices in their pursuit of higher education. An inductive thematic analysis revealed the diverse information needs and sources utilized by this understudied population. The results provide insights about affective dimensions of information seeking and the role of mentors as key information intermediaries in supporting more diverse, inclusive, and equitable space for FGDSs. The poster concludes with implications for practice to improve the interfaces between FGDSs and higher education institutions as well as the broader academic landscape.