Date of Award

Fall 2021

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Interdisciplinary Studies

College

Barnett College of Ministry & Theology

Primary Advisor

Dr. Joshua Britt

Abstract

This study evaluates the effects and impact of spiritual formation programs on firstgeneration college students. Literature has shown that these students, who are of the first generational cohort in their family to attend a four-year institution of higher education, often face unique challenges such as lack of college readiness, lack of familial support, and experiencing biculturalism on their campuses. Despite this, however, studies have shown that involvement and engagement in campus community is vital for these students’ success. The purpose of this study is to discover if participation in spiritual formational programming within the context of a Christian university has any effect on these students’ lives, and if so, which programs most affected them and how. Research consisted of surveying students belonging to this group, who were conveniently pooled at Southeastern University, through an online survey. After analysis, findings showed that first-generation students at this school had a significantly higher campus involvement rate than average. Additionally, nearly 85% perceived effects in engaging in spiritual formational activity and 81% saw these effects as positive. Participation in discipleship and/or small group activities was most significantly predictive of overall campus involvement. These results supported the researcher’s hypothesis that engaging in spiritual formational activities gave support to firstgeneration college students.

Download


Share

COinS