The purpose of this study is to identify common traits shared by first-generation college graduates from disadvantaged backgrounds who grew up in the inner-city. This research was inspired by Duckworth's grit research at Westpoint Academy which sought to predict which cadets would graduate (Duckworth, 2007). Sixty-three first-generation college graduates volunteered to participate in this study. The research questions were designed to uncover the correlation between the grit scale scores, levels of education, and salaries in order to find the common attributes among the target population. Analysis of quantitative data reveals the relationship between individual's grit scale scores in comparison to their education level and salary to determine their social mobility. Analysis of qualitative data yields the common attributes among the target population and the life events responsible for developing their resiliency. This study informs the reader about the sources of motivation for first-generation college students and how they persevered through setbacks in order to graduate from college. The results revealed that first-generation college graduates are positively impacted by higher education which is evidenced by their social mobility. The findings from this study may cause researchers to continue the work to discover what motivates first-generation students to persist through college in order to earn their four-year degree. [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.]