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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine factors first generation Latino college graduates identified as the most influential in their pursuit of a college degree, what needs and resources they had in college, and what approaches and strategies they used to succeed. In-depth interviews were used with 7 Latino college graduates to develop an understanding of what promotes educational success for this group. The participants in the study suggested 4 sources of influence for their college experiences: (1) influence of mentors and educational advocates, (2) family influences, and (3) influence pertaining to knowledge of ones heritage. Two subcategories emerged from (3) influence pertaining to knowledge of ones heritage, which were (3a) the effects of ones minority status and (3b) embracement of diversity on the college campus. This study concluded by offering (4) recommendations and suggestions to the educational community for increasing Latino college attendance and graduation.