First Generation Student Resources
According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success, first-generation students make up more than half, 54%, of all undergraduates in the United States. First-gen students have a unique opportunity to be the first ones in their family to achieve a bachelor’s degree, sometimes being the first one to attend college at all. It can be difficult to navigate the college process when students don’t have someone in their family who has gone through applying and attending a university before.
Here are some resources that could help first-gen students navigate higher education:
College Greenlight
College Greenlight is a web platform that helps low-income students find their best match college and match with scholarships. They have a college search tool, a fit meter, a tool to help students predict their chances of acceptance, and a scholarship match search engine. They also keep an up-to-date list of Fly-In programs, which allows students to visit the campus free and learn more about what the college has to offer. There are also articles on financial and to help students with the process.
Collective Success Network
The Collective Success Network is a volunteer-run Philadelphia-based nonprofit that supports first-generation and/or low-income (FGLI) college students to achieve their academic and career aspirations through empowering mentorship, professional development, networking, and leadership opportunities. They provide resources, social support, and encouragement to help students reach their full potential at school, in the world, and in the workforce.
The network connects students with professional mentors, prepares students to enter professional career paths, and collaborates with the wider business community to create innovative solutions to increase college success rates and build a socioeconomically diverse talent pipeline.
This program has chapters at Drexel University, Temple University, University of Pennsylvania, as well as a Consortium Chapter. They welcome all students in the Philadelphia area to join the network. Students from other schools can take advantage of programs and events without starting a campus chapter. Many of their online resources are free for everyone!
I’m First!
I’m First!, an initiative of UStrive, is an online community celebrating first-generation college students.
Check out video stories from first-gen students, read student blogs and discover colleges that have special programs to support their first-gen students.
This service is free and available nationally.
They partner with colleges and universities from across the country that place a high value on admitting and supporting first-generation college students. College Partners contribute to the I’m First! Stories campaign, nominate students to write for the I’m First! blog, are featured in the nationally distributed I’m First! Guide to College, and participate in the UStrive online mentoring platform.
UStrive connects students with financial need to free, one-on-one mentoring to help them navigate the college and financial aid application process. Students already in college can be matched with a mentor for support to help them graduate and prepare for career opportunities. The UStrive program is completely virtual, with mentors and students connecting through their online platform, UStrive.
Rise first
Rise First has developed a comprehensive online platform that empowers first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students and professionals. They aim to consolidate nationwide programs and resources that meet the needs of FGLI students. Their curated resource center serves as a place students can look when they need help and support to succeed in higher education and beyond.
Their goal is not only to democratize information but also to improve access for all FGLI students nationwide. For example, students can access the Pre-College Success Roadmap for High School Students, as well as other valuable resources, on their website.
America Needs You (ANY) –
This is a FREE program during which students can access their self-paced modules, as well as attend virtual enrichment events and social hours to dive deeper into the skills they are learning and connect with peers, America Needs You staff, and volunteers. Students who complete at least one pathway earn a digital badge, access to a professional network, information about internships, and other exciting benefits. FirstGenU Career Institutes are offered five times throughout the year. Complete their brief interest form to be notified when registration is open!
Remember, being a first-gen student is a unique journey, and you’re not alone. Many universities offer programs and support specifically designed to help first-gen students succeed. Reach out to your college to find out if they have specialized services for first-gen students. Best of luck!
Are you a high-achieving student with financial need? Look into our scholarship programs that aim to help our Scholars graduate debt-free from college here.