First-Generation Students

What Does It Mean to Be a First-Generation Student in Higher Education?

Being a first-gen student means you're the first in your family to pursue a four-year college degree. As a first-gen college student, you’re beginning your unique journey away from home. College is a time to explore who you are and connect with other students who share similar interests and experiences. Having these connections will help you build your own community on campus which is why finding other first-gen students to support you along your way can make a world of difference. Peers who can relate to any emotions or struggles you are experiencing will help you more confidently navigate: 

  • Feeling unfamiliar with college resources and campus operations.  
  • Having any hesitation about college finances including tuition costs, savings, and other expenses. 
  • Determining next steps without family guidance or experience.  
  • Adjusting to the demands of your new college life including course load and social interactions. 
  • Striving to meet high academic expectations amidst cultural or community adjustments. 

These challenges are something not all students will be able to relate to in the same way. But tackling each one head one, with the help of other first-gen students, faculty, and mentors will allow you to thrive during your college years.  

Tips for First-Gen College Students

Navigating college might seem intimidating, but finding the right resources and establishing a strong support network can make a significant difference.

Here are some specific steps to take: 

  • Engage with TRIO programs: TRIO programs are federally funded initiatives designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including first-gen students. They offer services like tutoring, academic advising, and financial aid assistance. 
  • Join mentorship programs: Look for mentorship opportunities that connect you with experienced students or alumni who can guide you through the college experience. 
  • Locate academic resources: Take full advantage of your campus’s academic resources, such as writing centers, libraries, and study groups, to dive deeper into your learning. 
  • Sharpen your skills: Work on your time management and study skills through workshops or online resources. These skills are very important for academic success. 
  • Build your community: Connect with peers who share similar backgrounds or challenges. This community can provide emotional support and advice as you navigate college. 
Remember, you're not alone in this; a whole network of people and resources is ready to help you succeed.  

Maximize ACT Advantages

As a first-gen student, taking the ACT can be a strategic move to strengthen your college application, especially when other aspects may not capture your full potential. It's an important step in proving your readiness for college-level work and securing the financial aid you need. Having an ACT score can help with: 

  • Highlighting key areas: A strong ACT score can demonstrate your proficiency in key subjects if your grades don't fully reflect your abilities. 
  • Balancing extracurricular gaps: If work or family responsibilities limit your extracurricular involvement, excelling on the ACT can help balance your college applications, showing colleges your academic potential and commitment. 
  • Access to scholarships: A strong ACT score can open doors to scholarships, which is important for minimizing college debt. 
 

Leverage Available Resources

You might find the journey toward college challenging, but there are free resources available to make navigating things easier, including free ACT prep tools. These resources offer study materials tailored to help you excel on the ACT, alongside specialized tools for college applicants. Applying for college can be manageable if you have the right resources. 

For your college applications, consider using the Common App, which simplifies the process by allowing you to apply to multiple colleges simultaneously. Understanding the college prep process through platforms like EncourageMe and the resources in MyACT is also key. EncourageMe empowers you to define your education goals, outline your personal journey, and reach important milestones, helping you make informed decisions about your future. Meanwhile, creating a MyACT profile provides guidance on post-high school paths, further aiding your college and career planning. 

By tapping into these free resources, you're setting yourself up to break down those barriers and build a bright future for yourself. 

 

Enroll in Educational Opportunity Programs

If you’re a first-gen student feeling overwhelmed about attending college for the first time, consider joining some Educational Opportunity Programs (EOPs). Designed for students who may not have a family history of college education or might be tight on financial resources, EOPs offer targeted support to help you succeed. They provide academic counseling, mentorship, and financial guidance tailored to your unique challenges as you transition to college life. 

To make the most of EOPs, here's what you can do: 

  • Identify EOPs: Start by checking if your chosen college offers an EOP. This information is usually available on the college’s website under student services or by asking your high school counselor. 
  • Utilize their services: Once you find an EOP, take advantage of their pre-college workshops and tutoring. They're designed to prepare you for college academics and life. 
  • Seek personalized support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help with your college applications, financial aid, or even day-to-day challenges. EOP staff are there to support you, offering a network of people who understand and are ready to help you navigate your college journey. 

Joining an EOP means you're not just getting academic support but becoming part of a community that understands your background and is committed to your success. 

 

Learn the Nuances of College Campus Culture

As you prepare to start your college journey, one wise move is to chat with students who are already there. Why? Because they have the inside scoop – the stuff you may not find written down in a guide. Talking to current students who've already been through what you're about to experience can give you a heads-up on the less obvious parts of college life. They can clue you in on how to network effectively, navigate the social scene, and make the most of the academic resources available. 

Engaging with peers already in college will help you get a real feel for campus life's unwritten rules, aiding in overcoming feelings like imposter syndrome. It reassures you that you belong and have a place in this new environment. From tips on interacting with your professors to getting involved in clubs or snapping up​​ internship opportunities, chatting with current students is a key step in getting comfortable in your new college environment. It's not just about surviving college; it's about thriving and having a truly fulfilling experience. 

Check Out More College Planning Tools

Diving into college as a first-gen student comes with its own set of hurdles, but you're not alone. ACT offers free resources aimed at helping you conquer standardized testing, ace college applications, and navigate financial aid smoothly. Ready to take the next step? Start exploring now and build your path to college success. You’ve got this!