The present study sought to examine unique challenges that first-generation Latino male students (FGLMs) face, along with contributing factors that helped to shape their college experience when adjusting to two community colleges in southern California. The selected institutions were large community colleges located in urban settings within Los Angeles County. Both colleges were predominantly White commuter institutions, accredited by the North America Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, an independent department accredited by the Council of Accreditation of Higher Education and the U.S. Department of Education's national accreditation board. This storytelling, qualitative study consisted of 10 personalized interviews of currently enrolled FGLMs at both selected colleges. Participants were selected based on the following specific criteria: male, age 18 or older, first-generation Latino attending college (e.g., identifying as Mexican, Mexican American, Central and South American), and having accumulated 60+ units with goal of earning an AA or Associate of Science (AS) degree and/or planning to transfer to a 4-year private or public in-state or out-of-state institution to earn a bachelor's degree. Participants' ages were between 18 and 30 years old. This study identified important findings and conclusions that impacted successful FGLMs the most: (1) validation by peers, mentors, and families; (2) college academic readiness; and (3) dedication, faith, and determination. The identified barriers and other essential factors and influences should guide leaders of institutions as they allocate campus resources and develop student success programs to address student retention and persistence for FGLMs in community college settings. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]