Bridging the Gaps for First-Generation College Students

Research suggests that First Generation College students may need additional support in their transition into college due to lack of academic preparation, knowledge of campus climate, low self esteem, and feelings of isolation. (Hicks, 2003) Some of these students get lost in orientation programs, in classes, and on campus.

If you are working with First Generation College students who are experiencing difficulty transitioning into college it is important to serve as a resource to connect students to supporting departments on campus. A few examples might be The Center for Academic and Career Development (workshops on study skills, time management, test taking), The Center for Multicultural Excellence, student organizations, and of course their UDCC Mentors.

In general, students have a higher rate of persistence if they feel connected to faculty, staff, and other students on campus beginning in their first quarter. For First Generation College students, these on-campus connections are especially important, because they are less likely to have on off-campus support network that can help them make the transition.

So, how do you know that a student is First Generation? It's not like this information shows up on the registration form or APR. At this point, the easiest thing to do is just ask. Students tend not to be offended or embarrassed by a question like, "Are you a First Generation College student?" or "Have others in your family gone to college?" It's also a good question to ask during a Dialogues session during orientation, and can generate a discussion about expectations for what college will be like, which vary a great deal among incoming students.

Resource: Hicks, T (2003). First generation and non-first generation pre-college students' expectations and perceptions about attending college. The Journal of College Orientation and Transition, 5-13.

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