Michael Daly

Hi, I'm Mike Daly!

I'm a 3rd year doctoral student here at University of the Pacific and I also work in the Graduate Admissions Office. I have created this website to share a little about myself and my research project on first-generation students attending UOP.

I'm a proud Californian and an even prouder first-gen college graduate. Everyday I'm reminded in some way about how a college education opened many doors and allowed me so many opportunities to both give back and pay it forward.
I also clearly remember my experiences as a new first-gen student struggling to successfully navigate the college landscape, balance work and school, and figuring out how to pay for all of my school and living expenses. It's from this experience and my desire to make it better for today's first-gen students that I chose to pursue my research study. Click on Research to learn more.

My Research Study

Research Topic

Improving the college experience and outcomes of first-generation college students through participation in high-impact education practices.

Why am I doing research on first-gen college students?

  1. I am a first-generation college graduate.
  2. First-gen students represent 30% to 50% of all college students in the United States.
  3. Research shows that, as a group, first-gen students are more likely to take longer to graduate or not finish their college programs.
  4. Through my research, I want to learn how the University can improve the experiences and the outcomes of first-gen college students.

My Research Plan

Throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall of 2025, I plan to connect with first-generation students enrolled at University of the Pacific through focus groups, an online survey, and individual interviews over Zoom.

I want to gather the voices, experiences, and insights of what it's like to be a first-gen student at Pacific and use that knowledge to recommend how the University might be able to more effectively provide support for helping more to have positive learning and social experiences, and continue their efforts to graduate on time.

If you are a full-time, undergraduate, first-generation student at University of the Pacific, please consider lending your voice to this study by sending me a message through my Contact page.

Thank you! Sincerely,

Michael Daly

Get in touch.

I look forward to hearing from you!