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Page of UCSB resources

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Resources | First Gen | UC Santa Barbara

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EOP website!

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UC Santa Barbara is a leading center for teaching and research located on the California coast - truly a learning and living environment like no other!

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Options and tips for major choice

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Discover Options | UC Santa Barbara Career Services

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UCSB first-generation statistics

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College Is A 4-Year-Long Balancing Act For First-Generation Students

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This fall, Halley Katz became the first in her family to go to a four-year college. Tyler Lattimore, a first-generation college graduate, shares how he balanced school, work and friends.

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When Lauren Schandevel arrived at the University of Michigan for her freshman year, she was struck by how wealthy all her classmates appeared to be.

"Just wealthy in ways that I couldn't even imagine," Schandevel recalls. Students had fancy clothes - and, it turns out, well-connected and powerful parents.

Schandevel had grown up in Warren, Mich., a suburb just north of Detroit. Her family was working class and she'd gotten scholarships and a few loans to make attending the prestigious state school a reality. When she got to campus, she didn't think much about her status as a low-income student. Sure, when her bill came due, she'd have a bit of panic - would this be the semester the financial aid fell through? But it wasn't really part of her identity.

Then, during Schandevel's junior year, the university's student government put out a campus affordability guide, written with the average Michigan student in mind - but it's worth noting that the average student at the school has a family income of about $150,000 per year.

The advice didn't go over well with low-income students on campus.

"A lot of the advice was like, fire your maid, or sell your car to save money," says Schandevel. "I was frustrated by this guide, and I was seeing others frustrated by it."

She decided to make her own affordability guide, and she fired up a Google doc and titled it, "Being Not-Rich at UM: A Guide." She added her own hacks - the things that helped her survive and budget. But there was so much she didn't know, so she left the sharing settings open for other students to jump in and edit the online document.

It took off. Hundreds of students started adding their tips about how to navigate college when you're paying your way through.

Today, a year and a few months later, Schandevel's crowd-sourced guide stretches more than 100 pages. It includes advice about jobs, housing, mentors, financial aid - even a bunch of great tips on where to find free food on campus. The doc's popularity helped her embrace her economic status and start to feel empowered.

"Economic status is such an invisible identity, and there are no places on campus where we can really find each other, says Schandevel. "So I feel like that was also a huge component of the guide. It brought together people who had experienced this before, and students knew they weren't alone."

Through social media, the Michigan Google doc started to make the rounds at other colleges. Students at schools across the country made their own "Not-Rich" guides based on Michigan's version. And from contributors to the guides at Ohio State University, the University of Texas at Austin, and Pima Community College in Arizona, we landed on these takeaways:

Find out what resources your college offers for students - you might have to do some digging.

It's OK to get a job, but try to find one that's related to what you want to do.

Make a budget. And don't miss out on free food!

When being thrifty isn't enough and you have no more hours for a job, talk to the financial aid office about taking out small federal loans.

Don't be afraid to ask for help.

Take care of yourself. You've made it to college: You belong there!

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How To Survive College When You're Paying Your Own Way

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Money issues don't end when you accept your financial aid. Paying your way through school can be stressful, but lots of folks have made it work and they have advice for how you, too, can navigate your years in college.

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Challenges that may help the understanding of what first-generation students face

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First-generation college students face unique challenges | Brookings

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The disadvantages of coming from a family where you are a pioneer in higher education are real.

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When it comes to making decisions about your future, there are a lot of factors to consider. One of the most important decisions you will ever make is whether to go to college. Some people might say that college is no longer important, a poor investment or that you can get a well-paying job without going to college.

We disagree.

If you're wondering how college helps your career, here are our top 15 reasons why college is still an important step in your career.

1. College prepares you for the workforce

While some people may argue that college is not necessary in preparation for the workforce, the reality is that attending college can give you a significant advantage when applying for jobs. A college education shows potential employers you can complete a long-term project, you can think critically, solve problems , and have the capacity to learn new things.

Most jobs now require at least some college experience; without a degree , you will likely be at a disadvantage when competing against other applicants. Even if you choose not to pursue a traditional four-year degree, there are many shorter programs, certificates and courses that can help you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in today's workplace.

2. College can help you network with other professionals

Networking is an important part of any professional's life. It can help you meet new people, learn about new opportunities , and build important relationships.

College is a great place to start networking.

Not only will you meet other students with similar interests, you'll also have the chance to network with your professors and other professionals. Attending college career fairs, joining professional organizations, studying with fellow students , and taking advantage of other networking opportunities are all steps you can take to build a strong network in college to be better prepared for your future career.

3. College can teach you how to think critically and solve problems

Many people believe the primary purpose of college is to prepare students for a specific career. While it is true that colleges do offer many programs that can lead to a successful career, there is more to a college education than just getting a job. One of the most important things that college can teach you is how to think critically and solve problems.

In the real world, you won't always have someone there to give you the answer to a problem. You need to be able to figure things out on your own and that's something college can help you with. Critical thinking skills are essential for success in school as well as success in life.

If you want to be successful, you need to learn how to think for yourself and find solutions to problems. College can teach you how to do that.

4. College can help you stand out from other applicants for high-level jobs

In today's competitive job market, a college degree can give you the edge you need to stand out from other applicants. Although some high-level jobs may only require a high school diploma, employers often prefer candidates with a college education. College coursework provides valuable knowledge and skills that can be applied in the workplace. Taking classes in writing, communication , and critical thinking that will help you excel in your career.

Additionally, most colleges offer internships and other experiential learning opportunities that can give you a taste of your future profession. As a result, completing a college degree can help you stand out to future potential employers.

5. College can help you stay up to date on the latest trends in your industry

Being up to date on the latest trends in your industry is one of the important benefits of going to college. For one, it can help you be more effective in your current role. If you're aware of the latest developments, you can implement them in your work and potentially improve productivity.

Staying up to date can make you more marketable if you decide to switch jobs. Employers will be impressed by your knowledge of the latest trends and technologies, giving you a leg up in the job search process. Fortunately, pursuing a college degree can help you stay abreast of the latest trends in your field. College professors are typically well-connected and informed about the latest industry developments.

Most colleges offer relevant courses that can teach you about the latest trends. By taking advantage of these resources, you can make sure that you're always up to date on the latest industry trends.

6. College can give you access to valuable resources, such as libraries and career centers

College can give you access to several valuable resources, both during your time in school and after you graduate.

One of the most obvious examples is the library. College libraries often have a much wider selection of books and other materials than public libraries. They also offer research assistance from librarians who are experts in finding the information you need.

Another valuable resource is the career center. Many colleges have career centers that can help you with everything from writing your resume to practicing for job interviews. They may also have job listings and internships available.

Taking advantage of these resources can help you make the most of your college experience.

7. College can help you find your dream job or career

Many people choose to go to college to prepare for a specific career. However, college can also be a helpful steppingstone if you are unsure of what you want to do with your life

By taking a variety of courses and exploring different fields of study, you can learn more about your interests and identify which fields you might like to pursue further.

Whether you know exactly what you want to do after graduation or are still trying to figure it out, college can be a great way to explore your options to find your dream job or career.

8. College can help you develop your personal and professional skills

College can offer students a lot more than just academic learning. In addition to providing an opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge in a chosen field, college can also be a great place to develop personal and professional skills.

Effective communication and time management skills are essential for success in any career. Whether through class presentations, group projects, or part-time jobs, college provides students with plenty of opportunities to hone these skills.

Extracurricular activities can help students develop leadership skills, teamwork skills and a sense of community involvement. College has a lot to offer where students can hone the skills they need to succeed in their chosen field.

9. College allows you to meet new people from all over the world

College is a time to expand your horizons and meet new people from all walks of life. With students coming from every corner of the globe, college provides an opportunity to learn about new cultures and perspectives.

You might have the chance to live with a student from another country or take a class taught by a professor with an international background. These experiences can help you develop a better understanding of the world around you and build relationships that last a lifetime. So, if you're looking to meet new people and learn about different cultures, college is the perfect place to start.

10. College is a time to explore your interests and passions

With so many different courses and activities available, there are endless opportunities to try new things and figure out what you love. For some students, this process happens right away , and they immediately know what they want to study. Others may take a little longer to figure it out, and that's okay.

The important thing is that you take the time to explore all that college has to offer. Talk to your professors, get involved in extracurriculars , and try out different clubs and organizations. By doing so, you'll be more likely to find something you're passionate about and can see yourself pursuing long-term. Who knows, you might even discover a hidden talent you never knew you had!

So don't be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone during college - it just might be the best decision you ever made.

11. College can provide you with opportunities to travel and learn about other cultures

One of the great advantages of attending college is the opportunity to travel and learn about other cultures. Many colleges offer study abroad programs that allow students to spend a semester or even a year living in another country. This can be an immensely valuable experience, providing students with first-hand exposure to new customs and perspectives.

Additionally, many colleges now offer online courses that make it possible to study from anywhere in the world.

As more and more businesses become globalized, it is increasingly important for students to understand different cultures. College provides an excellent opportunity to gain this valuable skillset.

12. College can give you the chance to specialize in a particular area of study

College can be a great opportunity to explore different areas of academic interest and to find a specialization that fits your skills and interests. In most cases, college students have the chance to take a variety of classes before declaring a major. This can be a great way to learn about different subject areas and to find out what you're passionate about. Once you've decided on a major, you can start taking more specialized classes that will prepare you for a career in that field.

Most colleges offer internship and research opportunities that can give you real-world experience in your chosen field. As a result, college can be the perfect time to discover your academic niche and begin pursuing a career path that is both personally fulfilling and professionally rewarding.

13. College is a great place to make friends and meet people with similar interests

College can be a great place to meet new people. With so many students and faculty members from all different backgrounds, you're sure to find someone who shares your passions. Whether you're looking for a study buddy, someone to grab coffee with or a new best friend, college is a great place to start your search

There are also plenty of ways to get involved on campus and meet people with similar interests. Get involved in a club or organization, join a sports team, or participate in campus events. You'll not only meet new people, but you'll also learn more about yourself and what you're passionate about. So don't be afraid to put yourself out there and start meeting new people in college!

14. College can help increase your earning potential

Most people know that a college education can lead to a better job and a higher salary. What many don't realize is just how big the difference can be

According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median earnings for workers with a bachelor's degree is nearly $60,000 per year, compared to just over $30,000 for those with only a high school diploma. Simply put, college graduates earn about twice as much as their non-college-educated counterparts.

College graduates are also less likely to be unemployed and have better health insurance and retirement benefits. The sometimes-high cost of tuition can be a barrier for some people considering college, but your increased earning potential should more than make up for it. So, if you're looking for ways to increase your earning potential, college is definitely worth considering.

15. College is the perfect place to gain your independence and develop your identity

There's no doubt that college is a time of huge transition. For many students, it's the first time they're living away from home and making their own decisions. It can be a big adjustment, but it's also an exciting time to gain your independence and start figuring out who you are.

One of the great things about college is that there are so many opportunities to explore new things and find out what you're passionate about. As you grow and change, you'll learn more about who you are and what you want in life. So, if you're feeling a little lost or uncertain about the future and what you want to do for a career, don't worry-college is the perfect place to find yourself and figure it out.

Metropolitan State University of Denver has a number of excellent programs designed for any kind of college student. We offer a number of  online programs  that provide the flexibility adult learners need as well as  campus-based programs  for those who have the time and freedom needed to attend school face-to-face. Talk to one of our friendly  admissions counselors  to learn more about these programs and see which is the best fit for you.

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15 Reasons Why College is Important for Your Career - MSU Denver

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If you're wondering how college helps your career, here are our top 15 reasons why college is still an important step in your career.

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For Grad programs as a First-Gen Student!

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Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs

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From First-Gen College Student to First-Gen Grad Student

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Adapting to graduate study as a first-generation student

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ONDAS Student Center Instagram!

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Welcome back to Instagram. Sign in to check out what your friends, family & interests have been capturing & sharing around the world.

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EOP Student Center Instagram!

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Welcome back to Instagram. Sign in to check out what your friends, family & interests have been capturing & sharing around the world.

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Resources for faculty!

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Faculty Opportunities | First Gen | UC Santa Barbara

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Resources for educators!

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In a complex system like UCSB, it takes a village for a student to successfully navigate our university. This section is designed for faculty, graduate students, and staff who are all part of first-generation college students' community of support.

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Mental Health Peers program!

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Being considered a 1st generation college student means that your parents have not completed a four-year college degree. You are not alone....~40% of undergraduates at UCSB are First Gen! Although…

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Research literature on the experiences of first-generation students

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Research Literature | First Gen | UC Santa Barbara

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How Research Is Critical for First-generation Student Success

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Learn about research and scholarships that inform the understanding of student experiences, institutional approaches to programming and more.

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By Lance Cortez
Transitioning to university life can be extremely difficult. You're moving away from home for the first time, all while being introduced to the rigors of university-level work and a new social setting. All of these conditions can be overwhelming to navigate, especially as a first-gen student.

If you're a new or incoming first-gen student and feeling lost, have no fear! Here are a few of the resources that you can tap into early on throughout your time at UCSB.
Summer Programs Summer Transitional Enrichment Program (STEP) + Summer Transfer Transitional Program (STTP)
STEP is a one-week transitional summer program for incoming first-year students, usually held in early August. Throughout STEP, students receive a taste of the university experience at a much more personalized level: the experience of residential life, while residing and eating in college dorms and dining commons; an introduction to college coursework, including workshops and lectures; access to one-on-one counseling with your respective college and financial aid advising; lastly, and perhaps the most important, the chance to begin building a community with fellow first-gen students!

STTP is essentially the same as STEP but for transfers. The only difference is that STTP students will reside in university apartments during their stay, as opposed to a residence hall.

Still not sold? Here are a few testimonies from past STEPers and STTPers:

"Through STEP, I got to learn about all the different resources for first-gen students that the campus has to offer. Each of them has been extremely useful throughout my time at UCSB. Overall, the program helped me feel way more comfortable about the transition!"

Jocelyn Lemus-Valle

Me (holding up my coworker) and my STEPers when I worked as an RA for STEP 2018 Class of 2022

"During the program, I had the opportunity to meet other first-generation students that became close friends and with whom I have experienced growth and challenges. The attention and dedication that the advisors and staff have with incoming students make you feel welcomed and confident to ask any questions regarding your personal and academic experience in higher education."

Carolina Ramirez Moreno

Class of 2021

"STTP prepared me to navigate UCSB and helped me make meaningful professional and personal networks. Thanks to the program, I was able to be more active on campus because I had learned about the opportunities available early on!"
First-Gen Resources
Isidoro Espinoza-Barajas

Class of 2021

EOP is a student affairs department that provides a ton of services for first-generation, income-eligible students (you can check whether or not you qualify as an EOP student on GOLD by clicking under the "registration" tab and looking under "programs"). Here are just a few of the main resources that the department offers:

· Counseling: Students often refer to EOP as a "one stop shop" because you can talk to their counselors about anything-academics, financial hardships, stress, etc. Whatever it is, they're there to help! (Shout out to Luther!)

· AS/EOP Grant: You won't want to overlook this one. EOP students are eligible for up to $1,000 per academic year for any of the following expenses. Just make an appointment with a counselor to go over details.

o Medical/Optical/Dental Bills

o Graduate Program Testing Fees/Application Fees

o Textbook and Supplies (including broken laptops!)

o Academic/Research Conferences and Memberships

· Peer Mentorship/Programing: EOP is home to 22 trained student mentors, ready to assist and empower students. EOP Peer Mentors hold weekly office hours, where students can come in to receive mentorship, learn more about campus resources/support services, or just chat! Additionally, these mentors facilitate quarterly workshops on all kinds of topics related to the first-gen experience. Pro-tip: food/snacks are always served at these events, so if you're ever on-campus and hungry, be sure to come through!

· First-Gen Peer Mentorship Program: 1st and 2nd year EOP students are strongly encouraged to apply for this program. Those who are accepted will be assigned an upper-classmen mentor with similar academic/career interests to guide them throughout the year. Follow the EOP IG page for updates!

The first cohort of the EOP Peer Mentorship Program in Fall of 2018

Established in 2014 under the Title V Hispanic Serving Institute grant, the ONDAS Student Center promotes the success and retention of first-generation college students with an emphasis on the first-year transition and underrepresented student experience. Here's a highlight of some of their services:

· Course Mentoring: There are six peer mentors-each involved in different spheres of campus life and with varying academic experiences-that provide course mentoring each quarter for select classes. You can come to them with any questions or guidance you might need pertaining to those courses, or anything else!

· Programing: In addition to all the wonderful programs put on by the OSC Peer Mentors, the center is particularly well-known for its events that provide students with an opportunity to connect with faculty in a fun and friendly way. If you're looking to make these connections, make sure to check these events out!

· Advising: The OSC serves as a satellite office for other campus resources such as College of Letters & Science counseling and Financial Aid advising. More than often, these are counselors who were first-generation students themselves.

· Graduate School Guidance: The OSC also employs a graduate student who serves as a resource for students looking to learn about or apply to graduate school.

· Study Space: Lastly, students are always welcome to use the center as a study space!

The EOP department oversees the operation of five cultural resource centers:

All located on the first floor of the Student Resource Building (SRB), these centers provide students with a space to celebrate their culture while building community with other students. Each center holds weekly community hours, where anyone is welcome to use the space for studying, chilling, and even sleeping! During these hours, you might even find one of the CRC Peer Mentors who can assist you with any questions or help you might need.

Some Chill Study Spaces El Centro @ Building 406 (Behind Davidson Library)
The Student Resource Building (SRB) located next to the Pardall Tunnel

The CRCs are also known for programing cultural events, as well as hosting huge campus-wide celebrations such as Black Family Weekend and Celebración de la Familia. Follow them on IG or Facebook for updates!
Cultural Resource Centers (CRCs) @ Student Resource Building (SRB) 1st Floor
Tons of students walk past this brown, two-story building every day without ever knowing it's a study space (or, for that matter, its historical and continuing legacy as a community organizing space for UCSB Latinx students). Recently renovated with colorful murals, beautiful displays of Latinx culture, and ample study spaces, you'll definitely want to check this spot out!
Ethnic Studies @ Davidson Library 2nd Floor

ONDAS Study Space @ Kerr Hall 1150
As previously mentioned, the CRCs are a great spot for studying! Although they're definitely smaller in size, each of them is decked out with couches, tables, and sometimes even snack/tea stations!

This is one of my personal favorites. Located on the 2nd floor of the Davidson Library, this space is distinctly sectioned off for the rest of the library to house the university's ethnic studies collection. In addition to being a great study space-complete with tables, individual desks, and computers-I've always found this spot to be a social hub for first-gen students. A little bit musty though, if you ask me!
Helpful Links
Located in front of Davidson Library (mountain side), the OSC study space is open Monday-Friday from 9am-5pm. The space is beautifully lit with natural light and has four computers available for student use!

Recently launched by the Office of Undergraduate Education, our very own first-gen website provides a resource guide for anything, and everything related to our community: news and updates, first-gen student/staff/faculty stories and spotlights, as well as a plethora of other helpful resources. One of the most important events that this website houses is UCSB's annual #First-Gen welcome, held at the beginning of each academic year.

Created in response to the challenges of attending the university during the pandemic, UCSB's Keep Learning website houses a lot of the student resources related to virtual learning.

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A Few Resources for Incoming First-Gen Students @ UCSB

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By Lance Cortez Transitioning to university life can be extremely difficult. You're moving away from home for the first time, all while being introduced to the rigors of university-level work and a new social setting. All of these conditions can be overwhelming to navigate, especially as a first-gen student.

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Basic Needs resources that are outside of education

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Basic Needs Support for First-gen Students

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UCSB’s strategies to address the basic needs of our first-gen students during a profoundly difficult time highlight expanding services of existing programs, launching new programs, and taking a broader approach to outreach.

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Stories of other first-generation students!

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42% of UC undergraduates are first-gen. Learn more about this diverse student body and their drive to succeed.

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Different university's perspective of what it is important to invest in first-generation students

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Commentary: The Importance of Investing in First-Generation Students

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This year on Nov. 8, colleges across the country are celebrating first-generation students as a part of National First-Generation College Celebration Day. This date is the anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which provided funding for programs to increase access, admission, retention, persistence and graduation of first-generation and low-income students attending institutions of higher education (IHE).

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Being the first in your family to attend higher education can be a rewarding and exciting experience.

But research shows that first-generation college students also face challenges, often related to economic and social factors, at phases of the higher education process from application to graduation. Veronica Hauad, the deputy dean of admissions and deputy director for access, affordability and inclusion at the University of Chicago in Illinois, says that these students commonly lack what experts call "social-cultural capital."

"If you're first gen, your parents haven't gone to college, maybe other people in your family haven't gone to college - you haven't navigated this space yet. So you don't know the new space's rules and how to navigate that new space," says Hauad, who was a first-generation college student.

Who Is Considered a First-Generation Student?

The definition of first generation, used to determine eligibility for the federal TRIO programs and Pell Grant, is a higher education student whose parent or parents did not earn a bachelor's degree, according to an amendment to the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Some schools, like the University of Pennsylvania, extend the definition to those whose parents received degrees from non-U.S. institutions, among other exceptions.

Given that the definition often varies by institution, students can miss out on resources and opportunities. Evelyn Elliott, a first-generation senior and president of First Gen United at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., says she came to campus unfamiliar with the term.

"I didn't even know what first-generation students were until I got an email from my college about it, inviting me to join the first-gen community. It's an identity that I didn't even realize that I could access and tap into," Elliott says.

Applicants should verify what definition an institution uses, or ask an admissions officer if it is not clearly stated to see if they qualify for its first-generation student opportunities.

Finding the Right Institution

Students from a first-generation or low-income background tend toward community colleges, trade schools and other vocational routes. But Matt Rubinoff, creator of the national I'm First campaign to help first-generation students succeed in higher education, encourages applicants to take a thoughtfully optimistic approach to the college search and to look at four-year degrees and more selective institutions, even if they feel out of reach.

Rubinoff, who is chief strategy officer at UStrive, an online mentoring organization for high school and college students, says it's important for first-gen students to consider financial and other constraints but not to limit their options.

"One thing we are trying to tackle head on is this misperception of what college opportunities exist for first-gen students," he says, "especially low-income first-gen students who, because they don't have a parent who went through the process, tend to take more of a 'glass half-empty' approach."

Like their peers, first-gen students should take into account a college's size, selectivity, location, extracurriculars, academics and cost. But that's "really just the tip of the iceberg," Rubinoff says.

First-generation students also need to consider additional aid and on-campus opportunities offered specifically for first-generation students. These include summer bridge programs, first-generation cohorts and faculty mentorship programs.

Rubinoff says to think "ahead of the first time you show up, 'Is this a school that is going to be able to support and nurture me both in and out of the classroom? Not just academically, but socially and financially as well?'"

Talking directly to an institution's admissions officer or current student can be a great way to fill in informational gaps and learn more about what programs and services that institution offers.

Financing Your Higher Education

Navigating the financial aid process is complicated for everyone, but it can be especially confusing for first-generation applicants. A study from the Pew Research Center reports that first-generation students are more likely to incur college debt, and more of it.

Applicants should fill out the FAFSA, typically due at the end of June for each academic year, which is responsible for a large portion of many applicants' financial aid package.

Some universities also allow students to submit financial aid appeals. If students feel they did not receive enough in scholarships, grants or loans in a university's offer, they may be able to appeal to increase their aid package. Hauad stresses the importance of asking questions throughout the entire process.

"You need things and you should ask for them, even if the outcome is not what you want, you should ask," Hauad says. "That's a big piece in any part of the process. You need to be proactive."

First-generation students can also look for scholarships and aid that cover living expenses in addition to tuition and fees, as well as scholarships offered exclusively to first-gen students. Information on such scholarships can be found online through resources like UStrive and First Generation Scholars.

Elliott advises students to budget based on the financial breakdown given to them by their college, and then seek out and account for any hidden costs and fees.

"This can be asking your academic adviser if there are certain courses that have course fees. Those are often huge surprises that come up and can be $300 to $400, depending on what your major is," she says.

Alongside academic advisers, current students of the same intended major can be a good resource for uncovering potentially hidden costs.

Elliott also recommends looking for on-campus resources such as food pantries, textbook banks and school-sponsored transportation, which can help bring down the cost of living.

Summer Bridge Programs and Other On-Campus Resources

Summer bridge programs, typically two to four weeks during the summer months, can help ease the transition to freshman year for first-gen students and families. These programs may invite students to an in-depth orientation, communicate with family members, provide academic advising and offer noncredit summer courses.

"The two colleges I've worked for have had those programs - you can go to Kenyon and do KEEP or STEM, you can go to UChicago and do CAAP. These are programs that are for students who historically are underrepresented at the college. You get to spend some time at that college in the summer before orientation, before move-in, and you get to learn the landscape of the school," says Hauad.

Once on campus, opportunities to connect and aid first-generation students are available at many institutions. Mentorship programs often pair first-generation students with faculty or upperclassmen that have similar backgrounds. Student-run organizations, like First Gen United at GWU, help connect new students to a larger cohort of first-generation students across their college or campus, and host social and academic events.

"I would definitely recommend reaching out and attending events that are specifically targeted for first-gen students, if they are available," Elliott says. "If they're not, that's kind of where it can become really difficult. Especially if you go to a university or college that is traditionally high income - it can be isolating, it can be difficult."

If programs for first-generation students are not offered at an institution, Rubinoff recommends finding other affinity groups such as student organizations and clubs, and connecting with faculty members.

Experts say it's common for first-generation students to feel out of place in higher education.

"It's not that you're the impostor. It's that you didn't have information that others did, sometimes very intentionally, systematically, and you haven't gotten that information," says Hauad. "And that's where the comfort with asking questions will come in, making sure that you ask things of people - that you're proactive."

But for many first-gen students, especially those from lower-income backgrounds or who are geographically far from family, that feeling might also be reinforced from back home.

"Oftentimes, it's the parents who kind of are pressuring students to commute or come back home, drop out of school, get a job and support the family," Rubinoff says. "It's a difficult situation, but the investment in your education and the value of a college degree and being able to have that to show for your effort beyond long term pays for itself and more."

First-generation students who feel out of place on campus should remember that many other students are feeling the same way when they enter college, Hauad says.

"College is new to everyone. Everyone is learning something - you're a first-gen, you're international coming from another country, your parents went to a different college at a different time, you're learning to navigate. You're not the only one even if it feels that way."

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What to Know as a First-Generation College Student

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Being the first in your family to attend college is rewarding, but comes with challenges.

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Celebrating first-generation student success - Achieving the Dream

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General UC resource list

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Student resources Navigating your first year as a #FirstGen Check out these tips from UC Santa Cruz first-gen faculty member Rebecca Covarrubias on how to make your first year count.

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Attending college for the first time is a big step for any student. For those who are the first in their family to pursue a college degree, the path is often paved with unique challenges and triumphs. As we delve into first-generation college student statistics, we uncover a narrative of resilience, determination, and the power of education to break down barriers.

Statistics on First-Generation College Students

First-generation college student statistics paint a complex picture of both triumph and adversity. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), approximately one-third of all college students in the United States are first-generation. This demographic represents a significant portion of the student population. However, despite their numbers, first-generation college students often face disparities in academic achievement, retention rates, and post-graduation outcomes compared to their peers.

In their first year of college, first-generation students often face unique challenges and opportunities compared to their peers who come from families with a history of higher education. Recent data from the Center for First-Generation Student Success shows interesting differences in how these two groups use campus services.

One trend is that more first-generation students rely on financial aid services, which makes sense given the financial obstacles many of them encounter. However, the data also shows that fewer first-generation students use health, academic advising, and academic support services compared to their peers.

This suggests there may be barriers preventing first-generation students from accessing or knowing about these important resources. For instance, they might not be aware of available health services or feel comfortable seeking academic support.

Challenges Faced by First-Generation Students

First-generation college students often encounter a distinct set of hurdles on their path to higher education. Financial constraints weigh heavily, as many come from low-income backgrounds, grappling with the costs of tuition and living expenses. Without the familial guidance of parents who have navigated college, they may feel adrift, lacking a support network to turn to for advice and encouragement.

As statistics on first-generation college students reveal, imposter syndrome frequently rears its head, with students doubting their abilities and feeling like they don't belong in the academic world. Navigating the unfamiliar terrain of college can be daunting, from deciphering academic jargon to accessing support services. Students often feel pressured to succeed not only for themselves but also to uplift their families and communities. This pressure can be both motivating and overwhelming, leading to stress and anxiety about academic performance.

First-generation students may have additional responsibilities outside of academics, such as working part-time jobs or caring for family members, which can make it challenging to balance their commitments and prioritize their studies. They may lack access to resources such as academic tutoring, internships, and career counseling, which can hinder their academic and career development.

Success Stories and Achievements

While first-generation college students statistics can be helpful when looking at the big picture, success stories can provide a more nuanced and inspiring perspective.

Javier, a recent graduate of CSU Fullerton and now employed at Family Health Centers of San Diego, credits his success to the support he received from Reality Changers. As a first-generation college student, Javier faced challenges navigating the college application process due to a lack of family knowledge.

Reality Changers provided him with one-on-one support and guidance, simplifying the application process and encouraging him to step out of his comfort zone. With our help, Javier graduated with a degree in Public Health and now channels his experience and support into his work as a Patient Health Navigator, giving back to his community.

Victoria, another Reality Changers alum, credits the organization for her success in college. As a first-generation student, she found a supportive community that helped her navigate the college application process and refine her personal story for applications. With their mentorship, she gained the confidence to attend Stanford University, where she graduated with degrees in Psychology and Creative Writing.

Victoria now works in advertising and remains connected to Reality Changers, volunteering at events like Speech Night. She encourages other first-gen students to join Reality Changers, highlighting its transformative impact in providing support and empowerment to pursue their goals.

Support Programs and Resources

Support programs and resources for first-generation college students are vital for their success in higher education. These initiatives include mentorship programs, financial aid assistance, academic counseling, and campus support networks.

Mentorship programs like Reality Changers pair first-gen students with experienced mentors who provide guidance and support. Financial aid resources help them access scholarships and grants to cover expenses. Academic counseling offers personalized guidance, while campus support networks provide a sense of community.

For further assistance, students can explore resources such as student organizations and College Success Programs offered by colleges and universities. These resources offer support, guidance, and information tailored to the needs of first-gen students, helping them navigate the challenges of college life and achieve their academic goals.

Policy Implications and Advocacy Efforts

Statistics for first-generation Latino college students can be incredibly revealing. For example, roughly 44 percent of Latino college students were the first in their families to attend university. Policymakers and advocates must prioritize initiatives that improve access to higher education for first-generation Latino students, including expanding financial aid programs, enhancing academic support services, and fostering inclusive campus environments.

By advocating for policies that address the unique barriers faced by first-generation Latino students, we can ensure that they have the resources and support needed to succeed in college and beyond.

The Reality Changers Impact

Statistics about first-generation college students can provide valuable insights into the challenges they face and the progress being made in supporting their success. However, behind every statistic lies a personal story of resilience, determination, and triumph. At Reality Changers, we've witnessed those stories first-hand.

By providing mentorship, academic guidance, financial aid assistance, and a supportive community, Reality Changers empowers students to overcome obstacles, pursue their dreams, and achieve their academic goals. Our emphasis on building confidence, fostering leadership skills, and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones has helped countless individuals unlock their potential and thrive in higher education.

As a result, Reality Changers alumni like Victoria and Javier exemplify the transformative power of education and the positive ripple effects that support programs can have on individuals, families, and communities. By continuing to invest in initiatives like Reality Changers and advocating for policies that support first-generation college students, we can create a more equitable and inclusive educational landscape where all students have the opportunity to succeed.

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First Generation College Student Statistics | Reality Changers

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Delve into the reality of first-generation college students with our exploration of statistics. Understand the challenges and triumphs shaping their educational journey.

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National Data Fact Sheets on First-generation College Students

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The fact sheets presented below provide information about first-generation college students’ demographic characteristics, enrollment characteristics, experiences during the early COVID-19 pandemic, and post-graduation experiences.

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Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs

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6 Supports Professors Need to Teach First-Gen Students (infographic)

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Equipped with the right knowledge and tools, professors can help first-generation students succeed. Our infographic offers six supports to consider.

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Four Tactics to Support the First-Generation Student | EAB

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The strategies profiled in this infographic represent four tactics to improve the experiences of first-generation college students.

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56% Of All Undergraduates Are First-Generation College Students

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First-generation college students across the U.S. bring dedication, grit and fresh perspectives to their higher education institutions. Many of them also face more academic and financial challenges than their continuing-generation peers. Though definitions of first-generation college students var