If you’re the first one in your family to go to college—also called a first-generation college student—you might not have the same support as others, but you’re definitely not alone. Discover essential resources designed to support first-generation college students on their academic journey.
First Generation
Tips for First-Generation College Students
- The U.S. Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid page is full of resources for students, including how to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, apply for student loans, and apply for Federal Pell Grants.
- Pell Grants are for undergraduate students who “display exceptional financial need,” and the grants don’t have to be paid back.
Many colleges offer summer bridge programs to help prepare first-generation college students for the academics of college and life on campus.
You shouldn’t be afraid to reach out to your college campus academic help or tutoring center. Most campuses have centers where they offer free academic support. If you need help with writing a paper or studying for an exam, there are staff, and often graduate students doing their thesis or doctoral work there, who can help undergraduate students. Find out about services to support you on campus.
Each professor, teaching assistant, and dean has office hours as part of their teaching and advising duties. Additionally, office hours are a great way for you to connect with your professor in a personal way. This is especially important in large lecture classes but even more critical for first-generation students who often don’t get access to the same mentoring opportunities as some of their peers. Learn more about fostering healthy relationships with professors and finding mentors in college.
Colleges and universities are required to provide accommodations to students with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act and should have an office of accommodations or disability. However, in order for you to receive disability services, you must apply for the services yourself at the office and follow the rules of the college or university you attend. Each institution will have their own procedure about what documents you’ll need to provide as proof of your disability.
As the first person in your family to attend college or university, it’s important for you to find support and safety with people who understand your life experiences. An affinity group is a group of people who share an identity—like race, gender, sexual orientation, age, or veteran status—and gather to find connection, support, and inspiration on college campuses.
Resilient first-generation students who graduate with degrees report positive outcomes throughout their college-going years, and upon graduation, throughout their careers, according to Gallup-Poll research. As you approach graduation, continue to persevere as you search for your first job out of …
by The Chronicle of Higher Education
The path to and through college has twists and turns for first-generation students. The Chronicle interviewed two such students who are dealing with challenges as they pursue degrees at the University of Maryland-Baltimore County.
