Routledge Campus Service Workers and First-Generation Student Mentorship - Routledge

This Routledge research volume examines how campus service workers provide informal mentorship and culturally relevant support to first-generation students, exploring the critical role these relationships play in improving student retention and academic success. Drawing on higher education research, the book investigates the often-overlooked contributions of non-faculty staff in fostering student belonging and persistence. It addresses how institutional barriers and cultural disconnection affect first-generation students and demonstrates practical strategies for leveraging existing campus relationships to enhance student outcomes. The study provides valuable insights for higher education administrators, student affairs professionals, and policymakers seeking to strengthen support systems and create more inclusive campus environments. This volume adds to the growing body of knowledge about equitable practices in higher education by highlighting grassroots mentorship as a sustainable approach to improving retention rates and ensuring first-generation students thrive academically and socially.