This project investigates the study-to-work transitions of First-in-Family students (FiF students), i.e. those who are the first in their families to attend university. FiF students can face multiple forms of disadvantage when transitioning into, through and out of university. However, little is known about the last stage of the student life-cycle: transitioning out of study. The aim of this research project is to shed light on this phase by exploring how FiF students navigate their transition into graduate employment.
The project is guided by the following research questions:
- How do FiF students progress their career futures and how do they navigate their transition out of university into graduate employment?
- What role does student employment play when entering the graduate labour market?
- How can university policies and practitioners support FiF students in transitioning to the graduate labour market?
This project combines a qualitative methodology and best-practice research to develop policy implications on how to support and empower FiF students during their transition out of university into graduate employment. In addition, it is conceptualised as a collaborative international study by closely working with Prof. Sarah O’Shea (Dean at Charles Sturt University) including a research stay and field work in Australia.
The contribution of this project is threefold: first, as an exploration of the hidden challenges and inequities of transitioning into graduate employment; second, as a country-comparative perspective drawing on interview data from Austria and Australia and thirdly, through its use of best-practice research to develop Austrian policy implications aimed at enhancing support of FiF students’ transitions into the graduate labour market. Findings can be used by higher education managers and practitioners moving towards a more inclusive and diverse higher education sector.
Project leader: Ass.-Prof. Franziska Lessky, BA MSc PhD Contact details