What Research Says

Our study of how educators are increasing postsecondary access for Latino students was guided by a large body of literature. We focused, whenever possible, on research concerning early adolescence and the challenges faced by first-generation college students. This section is organized into four parts that summarize what we learned about students' aspirations and expectations regarding postsecondary education, what students need to access and succeed in college, the importance of supportive relationships in promoting academic success, and the way in which students bridge multiple worlds. The work cited in this section informed our research during key phases, and it bears important implications for the practice of secondary school leaders and college access professionals