Resources to be Successful as a First-Generation College Student

When touring different colleges and universities, you’ve likely heard the term “first-generation.” While it may seem like a new buzzword, it has been part of discussions in the higher ed landscape for some time. With more and more first gen students enrolling in college, it’s important to recognize the important role they play within their families and on campus. If you’re interested in learning more, keep reading to discover what first-generation college students are and how they can best succeed. 

Why Being a First-Generation College Student Matters

According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA and the Suder Foundation, a first-generation student is categorized as those who are the first in their family to attend college. They have the chance to forge a new path in higher education that previous family members weren’t able to do. As the first person in their family to undergo this journey, they take on a huge role and responsibility as young adults that will ultimately make a huge difference in their lives and families.

Challenges of First-Generation College Students

Students entering college face several challenges: choosing a major, finding a roommate, and deciding where to live. However, as a first-generation college student, there are additional challenges they’ll face throughout college that non-first-generation students won’t. Parents of non-first-generation students will have plenty of information to share about the overall college experience. In contrast, parents of first-generation students will not be able to do the same. This lack of information means they likely won’t be able to go to their family with questions or concerns. They will be there to listen but may not know how to help. 

Another challenge a first-generation student may face is feeling homesickness or guilt. Leaving your family to attend college, sometimes hundreds of miles away, isn’t easy for any student. For first-generation students, homesickness is often intermingled with guilt as they’re the ones attending college. It can be especially difficult when their families rely on them so much at home. While this rings true, it’s important to remember they’re there for a significant reason, and it’s a temporary situation. 

How First-Generation College Students Can Ensure Their Own Success

When entering a new and unfamiliar world, the question of how they can ensure first-generation student success or veteran success in college may first come to mind. When asked, Julie Carballo, the director of first-generation initiatives, veteran, and military-affiliated student services at North Central College, stated by “finding a community to share the journey.” With solid supporters by your side, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with faculty, staff, and other mentors at their institution, as well as form relationships with students on the same journey.

In addition to building a supportive network, it will be crucial to have a positive, can-do attitude, where you believe in yourself each step of the way. There’s no doubt there will be hurdles along the way as you earn a college degree. It’s important to remember there will be a way to get over or around them. Never be afraid to ask questions or for help. Your mentors are there to answer them and provide guidance so that you can be the best student you can be throughout your time at college.

How Colleges Support First-Generation Students

The best way colleges can support a first gen student is proactive and uplifting programming. A nationally recognized leader in first-generation programming and student success, Cardinal First at North Central College provides a supportive and welcoming community for all first-generation students and their families. Dedicated to the well-being and success of first-generation students, North Central has a campus culture that recognizes and celebrates the first-generation student identity as an asset. The program provides not only a network of other first-generation students, faculty, and staff to connect with but also the necessary resources, information, and experiences to prepare students for success from enrollment to graduation. 

Scholarships for First-Generation College Students

For the average family, college can be expensive, and even more so for a low-income student. With the help of scholarships, the cost of college can be a bit more approachable. As more colleges and universities focus their attention and resources on first-generation students, more organizations and institutions have designated specific scholarships for them. 

When you’re applying to a school, ask to see which scholarships are available to you as a first-generation student. This is also important if you are applying to college as a veteran. For instance, North Central College offers a renewable $1,000 Cardinal First Scholarship to students who meet the participation and attendance requirements. On top of this scholarship, first-generation students also have the chance to receive merit-based scholarships awarded by the College.