A phenomenological qualitative research study was conducted to answer the research question: How do first-generation college students experience ambiguous loss towards their cultural identity because of cultural mismatch? To what extent do first-generation college students experience ambiguous loss of their cultural identity? The researcher recruited 8 first-generation college students from CSWE accredited universities across the nation. Research participants were recruited through non-probability criteria sampling strategy. Instrumentation for the study involved a survey instrument and a semi-structure interview schedule. The survey instrument asked questions regarding cultural identity through the Multicultural Identity Integration Scale (MULTIIS) and ambiguous loss through a modified version of the Boundary Ambiguity Scale # 3 "For Parents of Adolescents Leaving Home." The survey results were used to gather descriptive data as well as interviews participants. After coding and analyzing themes, the researcher was able to conclude that first-generation college students do experience ambiguous loss, to the extent to which resiliency becomes a significant factor is working through cultural mismatch experiences. [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.]