External Factor

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When addressing the issue of what are the different factors that impact baccalaureate student’s decision to pursue graduate studies, we notice that there are many barriers that come into play when it comes to making that decision. It could be financial, the motivation of the individual, academic achievement, family responsibilities, interest in graduate studies and program availability to name a few. There are many challenges and preparation that comes with this decision. In the studies that will be discussed we will further explore the factors that influence individuals to make that decision.
According to a 2009 study by Nordstrand and Segrist "although many undergraduates apply to graduate school, only a fraction will be admitted. A question …show more content…

Academic Locus of control is whether the person perceives themselves as having control over their education. Internal locus control is a person who believes that they have control of their education based on the time and effort they put in their studies. External locus of control are those that believe external factors influence their education and outcomes example luck, professors, course requirements or social activities. Nordstrand and Segrist expected those with an internal locus of control would pursue graduate school because they would feel more prepared and have faith in their abilities to succeed in graduate school, as opposed to those who have an external locus of control who may experience anxiety because of different obstacles and circumstances faced in graduate school. Consumer orientation is the amount to which students have a consumer mentality to the educational process. "As consumers, some students feel that the main purpose for college is economic, a means to increase their earning potential rather than learning for its own sake" (Nordstrand and Segrist, 2009). Nordstrand and Segrist …show more content…

According to this study there are ethnic/racial differences in the Latino youth on how they perceive themselves in the near future. “Latino youth were less likely to picture themselves attending college and more likely to have social goals, such as starting their own family.” (Turcoise-Cotto & Milan, 2013). According to this study these differences may represent cultural values. According to Turcoise-Cotto & Milan there are cultural, structural and individual factors associated with the educational gap between Latinos and Caucasian youth. Latino youth face poverty, overcrowded schools, go to schools that have less resources, and they have different cultural values. “Though the majority of Latino Youth and their parents believe a college education is important for a successful future, many youth report the need to support their family as the reason for not continuing with their education.” (Turcoise-Cotto & Milan, 2013). Latino youth also have different values and feel it’s much more important to help their family whether it’s assisting their current family or starting their own family. Latino youth report more family obligation than white youth and this may influence the decisions

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