Revealing the Divide: A Post-COVID-19 Comparative Analysis of Resource Utilization Among First-Generation and Continuing-Generation College Applicants

The COVID-19 pandemic transformed the college search process by accelerating digital resource adoption. This case study, framed by a Social Worlds theoretical lens, analyzes data from 28,468 respondents to a Fall 2024 Common Application question at a highly selective university, with 22 percent identifying as first-generation applicants, to understand resource use. Findings reveal that first-generation students use fewer resources overall and rely more on unpaid services, while continuing-generation peers benefit from family support and paid services. Significant disparities in resource access highlight the impact of socioeconomic and familial factors. The study recommends expanding free resources and institutional support to improve equity in college admissions.