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The Future is FirstGen

News & Blogs

Find the latest from the Center, learn new and innovative approaches from colleagues, and engage with current mainstream media conversations on first-generation student success. In addition to the filters below, please utilize the “search” bar in the top, right corner to search by keyword, author name, or publication title.

FirstGen Forward announces new class of Network Members
FEATURE | August 01, 2024

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FirstGen Forward announces inaugural class of Network Champion Institutions
FEATURE |

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Classroom of parents
To help first-generation students succeed, colleges enlist their parents

This article explores how colleges can boost graduation rates of first-generation college students by building relationships with the students’ parents.

The Hechinger Report / August 15, 2019
Group of students at computer
It’s OK to Ask for Help

In this interview, first-generation college graduate, Gaby Flores, shares valuable advice that helped her overcome challenges in college.

ACT Center for Equity in Learning / August 14, 2019
UM Student in TRIO
First in the family: How a first-gen Blackfeet student finds success at UM

As a first-generation college student and member of the Blackfeet nation, Whiteman discusses how she built her support system at the University of Montana.

Missoulian / August 11, 2019
USC student YouTube
First-generation student’s videos capture honest, guiding glimpse of college life

A first-generation college student uses her YouTube channel to make videos that can help other first-generation college students and inspire younger students.

Daily Bruin / August 11, 2019
Student holding books
How University Leaders Can Empower the 'New Majority' Student

Campus leaders are looking at new ways to empower the New Majority, which includes first-generation college students, to thrive on campus and beyond.

Gallup / August 09, 2019
Intern in front of Capitol
Preparing first generation college students for their first career job

The Latino Communications Institute is preparing and uplifting first-generation students through their unique programs and services.

LinkedIn Pulse / August 08, 2019
Marisel Herrera Studying Abroad
Studying Abroad, A Generation Apart

Experiencing study abroad through my son’s eyes this summer illuminated stark contrasts in our experiences.

Marisel Herrera M.Ed. / August 07, 2019
Michelle Obama sitting
MICHELLE OBAMA TO HELP GET STUDENTS READY FOR FIRST YEAR OF COLLEGE

A first-generation college graduate herself, Michelle Obama will offer advice for first-year college students as part of an original YouTube series.

Newsweek / August 06, 2019
Latina engineer
Dr. Idalis Villanueva Teaches By Example

Dr. Villanueva draws upon her experience as a first-generation, Latina woman scholar to pour into her students and encourage them to pursue STEM.

Diverse Issues in Higher Education / August 05, 2019
Cornell Commencement
Decoding College: Schools rise to fill in gaps for first-generation students

Ithaca College, Cornell University, and Tompkins Cortland Community College are creating resources and support systems to meet the needs of first-generation students.

The Ithaca Voice / August 01, 2019
UGA Campus Tour
Some Colleges Target Jargon in the Name of Student Success

Colleges and universities are beginning to question their own jargon-filled handbooks and campuses, taking steps to clearly define confusing terms.

The Chronicle of Higher Education / July 31, 2019
Student studying
How First-Generation College Graduates Can Approach Their Finances With a Healthy Mindset

These actionable steps can help first-generation college students get started in making positive financial decisions with a healthy money mindset.

Forbes / July 29, 2019
UNL first-gen student
Business program at UNL connecting first-generation students with a college education

A summer program now in its seventh year, is inspiring college-bound, first-generation high school students to connect to college.

Lincoln Journal Star / July 24, 2019
Michelle Obama panel
Michelle Obama's advice to 1st-gen college students: 'You are faster, quicker, smarter, sharper'

Former first lady Michelle Obama had a message for students who are the first in their family to attend college at her annual #BeatingtheOdds Summit.

Good Morning America / July 24, 2019
College Promise and Students
I Can And I Did: A First-Generation College Student Achieving The American Dream

A first-generation college graduate reflects on her journey to achieve her American dream of earning her college degree.

Forbes / July 23, 2019
SIU Office
SIU launches office to help first-generation college students

A new center for the university’s first-generation students will provide the help, resources, mentorship and peer support they need to succeed.

The Southern Illinoisan / July 16, 2019
empty lecture room
UChicago Access Initiative Increases Enrollment From Underrepresented Groups

A new initiative at the University of Chicago is welcoming more first-generation students through scholarships and a test-optional application process.

Diverse Issues in Higher Education / July 13, 2019
First-Generation College Celebration Main 2022
101 Ways to Celebrate on Nov 8!

In need of ideas for your 2019 #CelebrateFirstGen event? Whether you are celebrating on November 8 or hosting a week or month-long event, here are 101 options! Get creative and have fun!

Sarah E. Whitley Ph.D. / July 12, 2019