The Impact of Cultural Values and Norms on First-Generation Latinas: A Case Study on the University of Chicago

The topic of this study was chosen because while all Latinos are subject to challenges that lead to low educational attainment, Latinas occupy an especially unique role in their family. First-generation Latina students often must play a balancing act as they navigate college while attempting to keep up with familial obligations and expectations. Studying the cultural values and beliefs of Latinas allows for the formation and implementation of culturally appropriate interventions to increase the educational attainment and overall socioeconomic position of Latinas across the country. This study aims to identify the link between cultural values and gender roles and the experience of first-generation undergraduate Latinas at the University of Chicago. This research is guided by the following questions:

1. How do first-generation Latinas at the University of Chicago view their familial expectations/responsibilities and cultural gender norms? a. How have these perceptions adapted or evolved over the students' time in college?

2. How do cultural norms regarding family and gender affect first-generation Latinas at the University of Chicago? a. What, if any, added pressures and stress do Latinas experience regarding these cultural norms? In what ways, if at all, do these norms enrich the students' experiences?