The First@²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ program is designed to support first-generation students and their families in taking advantage of everything that ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ has to offer.
Every year more than 400 first-generation students are pursuing their degrees at ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ. They are students whose parents have not earned a bachelor's degree or higher.
Understanding the unique experiences of first-generation students, First@²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ offers students support and guidance in:
Making the jump to college life
Understanding academic expectations at the collegiate level
Navigating key campus offices
Building a sense of community with one another
92%
²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ’s investment in support for first-generation students has resulted in 4-year graduation rates of over 92% in recent years.
²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ the Program
The First@²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ program, which is open to all incoming first-generation students, includes the following components:
The pre-orientation program includes:
A welcome dinner for students and families
Peer mentoring and social activities with current first-generation ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ students
Advising to assist with campus involvement, course selection, and understanding academic rules
Panel sessions on
Skills associated with effective reading, note-taking, and writing
Time management, self-care, and building a healthy social life
First@²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ offers opportunities tailored to meet the specific needs of the students in the program, which may look like:
Ongoing programming connects students to ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ's many resources
Group and one-on-one discussions on making the most of the opportunities at an elite liberal arts college
Social events to build community, including dinners, study breaks, and game nights
Bi-weekly First@²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ communications to highlight upcoming events, programs, campus opportunities, and important institutional deadlines
Students gather to snowshoe on campus.
First generation students celebrate their graduation together.
Students and their families attend the First Generation Dinner during Family Weekend.
