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First-Gen Mentorship Program

What is a first-generation college student?

A first-generation college student is a person whose parents or guardians have not earned a 4-year college degree.

First-Generation college students can face additional challenges in academic preparedness, familial support, and financial stability. Adjusting to college can be difficult and often leads to lower graduation rates for first-generation students. Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ’s First-Generation Mentorship Program provides resources for students and works with faculty and staff to eliminate barriers to support first-gen students from college enrollment to graduation.

Most first-gen college students have already experienced and overcome significant life challenges, and to achieve college enrollment as the first in their family is a great accomplishment. At Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, we celebrate being First-Gen and believe that these life experiences hold a depth of character, courage, and determination that demonstrate unique potential.

The First-Generation Mentorship Program connects first-generation undergraduate students with Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ alumni, faculty, staff, and administrators who were themselves, first-generation college students. Our goal is to provide participants with the knowledge, confidence, and tools to grow their network and advance their academic and career endeavors through mentorship and intentional support.

Throughout the year, there will be opportunities for connection and learning through workshops and other activities. I Am First-Gen workshops will help you:

• make connections with other first-generation students
• learn more about your strengths and skills
• develop a plan for college and beyond
• identify potential mentors who can guide you toward greater success

Are you looking for a mentor? ! 

The mentor-mentee relationship that is fostered through the First-Generation Mentorship Program gives students the opportunity to learn from someone with whom they can connect and provides mentors the opportunity to share their insight and advice to support student success. Building a meaningful mentor-mentee relationship has proven proved the be greatly beneficial to students.