When Students Feel Alone in the College Experience
First-generation college students often arrive on campus without the same family experience with higher education that many continuing-generation students have. Navigating academic expectations, campus systems, and support resources can feel isolating, and those experiences may shape whether students feel comfortable seeking academic help.
At SPARK! 2025 (Showcase of Projects, Art, Research, and Knowledge), Chareina Johnson of the M.A. in Psychological Sciences program presented research examining how feelings of existential isolation relate to students’ willingness to seek academic support. The study explores differences between first-generation and continuing-generation students and what those differences may mean for student success.
Abstract: Existential Isolation and Help-Seeking Among First-Generation College Students
Existential isolation (EI) can be described as the feeling or perception that an individual is alone within their life experience as others do not share similar thoughts, feelings, or actions. First-generation college students (FGCS), whose parents did not attend college, may experience higher levels of existential isolation. Research suggests that, compared to continuing-generation college students (i.e., students whose parents graduated college), FGCS have less knowledge about navigating college and are often afraid of asking for help for fear of being viewed as imposters.
In this cross-sectional study, we investigated differences in EI and help-seeking intentions in 79 FGCS and 75 continuing-generation college students. The results show that first-generation students report higher levels of EI which is, in turn, associated with more negative attitudes toward academic help-seeking.
These results suggest that EI plays a role in the difficulties FGCS experience while navigating college and that EI may have implications for student success.
Graduate Poster Exhibition at SPARK!
The Graduate Poster Exhibition celebrates the research and creative work of the graduate community, showcasing everything from prose and code to original research and artistic expression. As part of SPARK! (Showcase of Projects, Art, Research, and Knowledge), a reimagining of Research Week, the exhibition highlights the depth, range, and impact of graduate scholarship and invites the campus community to engage with ideas taking shape across disciplines.
Understanding the Mind: The Psychological Sciences Program
The Psychological Sciences program at Rutgers–Camden offers a comprehensive curriculum that prepares students for advanced research and practice in various psychological disciplines. The program provides a foundation in research design and data analysis, with opportunities for individually supervised research apprenticeships. Students can choose between a thesis track, ideal for those aiming for doctoral studies, and a content track, suited for careers in non-academic research settings. The curriculum emphasizes scientific research methods applicable to real-world problems, equipping graduates with critical thinking and analytical skills essential for diverse career paths in psychology.
Advancing Community Well-Being: Prevention Science Graduate Programs at Rutgers–Camden
The Rutgers–Camden M.S. and Ph.D. programs in Prevention Science offer an interdisciplinary approach to tackling complex challenges affecting both communities and individuals. Emphasizing intervention strategies, causal analysis, and advanced statistical methods, these programs equip students with the skills necessary for high-quality research in fields such as international development, education reform, and healthcare. The Master of Science program requires 34 credits, while the Doctor of Philosophy program entails 61 credits, with both options available for full-time or part-time enrollment. Graduates are prepared to address pressing social issues and contribute to positive change across various sectors.
Spotlights & Stories
Want more stories like this? Spotlights and Stories highlights alumni, faculty, staff, and student experiences through stories, video, and voice. Learn more
Explore Graduate School Programs
Rutgers Graduate School-Camden offers 20+ graduate certificates, master’s, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including biology, data science, creative writing, and psychology. We take pride in our academic diversity. Learn more
Former Students, Get Involved
Stay connected with Rutgers-Camden! Engage with former students, attend events, and support current students. Your involvement strengthens our community and helps shape future success. Learn more