First generation college students constitute a large and growing segment of the student body. Higher-education establishments work hard to attract and retain this demographic.

First generation students are more likely to apply to a two-year college program or community college, compared to students whose parents have a bachelor’s degree. First generation students who attend a 4-year program are also twice as likely to leave college after 3-years.

What defines students as first generation can vary. United States Federal outreach and student services “TRIO” programs, however, define it as a person whose parents did not complete a 4-year college degree.

First generation students face unique challenges. They may need additional support throughout the entire college or university experience, starting with the application and admissions process through to graduation.

This is because they don’t necessarily have the knowledge base and support networks other students may have. They may also find it harder engaging in college life than their peers.

A powerful engagement strategy and dedicated resources are key to attracting and retaining this segment of the student population. Below are 5 ways to empower and increase the success of first generation students.

First generation college students and image of college classroom

1. Awareness of Available Resources Starts Early

First generation college students don’t necessarily struggle academically. It’s generally because they aren’t aware of the available resources that they have a hard time navigating the college experience and have higher dropout rates than their peers.

High-impact practices that positively affect resilience and overall student success start in high-school. These include targeted programs relating to scholarships, financial aid, and choosing a higher-education establishment based on academic and co-curricular interests.

First generation student grants, scholarships and work-study programs are proven to boost engagement and retention. Financial aid helps students engage in campus life by removing some of the financial burden. Financial-aid sources for first generation students can cover tuition, room and board, books, and other essential needs.

Summer bridge-programs also effectively provide first generation students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Such programs introduce incoming students to social and academic support networks prior to starting college. Resources include college campus services, peer counseling programs, upper class and faculty mentoring programs.

2. Integration through Orientation and First-year Programs

One of the most critical aspects of the college experience is how new students are integrated. Practices that help increase student engagement and resilience include robust orientation programs.

Pre- or extended-orientation programs are increasingly popular for new-students and especially effective for first generation students. Some colleges and universities cater specifically to this demographic, offering “First in the Family” pre-orientation programs.

Support services are also extremely helpful in integrating and engaging first generation students into college life. They provide students with academic support systems through writing and tutoring centers, tips on how to study, as well as other targeted courses.

First-year programs help students build social connections through co-curricular activities. Some programs promote “shared learning” strategies, providing students with a peer network outside of the classroom. Based on their success, many first-year programs are mandatory.

3. Connection to Support Networks

Among the most important factors in the success of first generation students is engagement. Campuses that provide multiple and varied support networks have happier and more resilient students, directly contributing to better retention rates.

First generation students generally lack the support network of family and friends at home. Providing them with the help they need is critical. Many colleges have first generation specific organizations to fill this need.

Their goal is to facilitate the college transition, providing academic and social resources for members. They also help build a community among first generation students, providing them with a platform to advocate for themselves.

In the US, there are several organizations dedicated to this segment. These include nonprofits such as, I’m First, First Gen Fellows, America Needs You and Opportunity Nation. The Youtube channel I’m First also has the goal of inspiring first generation students to stay the course. Students worldwide share their story in a video to motivate others.

Mentoring programs, as well as connections with faculty members and advisers further play a significant role in the lives of college students. They help first generation students navigate the college experience and stay on track throughout their academic career. Responsibilities include assisting with course scheduling, scholarship applications, enhancing study skills and engaging with peers.

Such relationships are among the most important connections first generation students make and are a determining factor when it comes to academic success and retention. Initiatives that pair new students with college leaders or faculty members that are first generation themselves are especially effective.

First generation college students and running

4. Involvement in Social and Co-Curricular Activities

Colleges that provide numerous different opportunities for students to get involved in campus life have better engagement rates. First generation students that are not well integrated in the college community are less likely to attend study groups and take part in co-curricular activities.

First generation students often delay participation in extracurriculars until they feel they have their academic life in control. However, there is a strong correlation between delaying involvement in extracurriculars and dropout rates. Encouraging participation early on through involvement fairs is very important.

Co-curricular activities, sports, clubs and organizations, Greek Life and other campus activities and events are key to engaging students. They provide strong support networks for new students and help them build a sense of belonging.

On-campus jobs are also a great way for first generation students to connect to their campus. Further, study-abroad programs are wonderful ways for students to broaden their horizons and experience another culture. It’s also a great way for them to expand their network.

5. Having a Dedicated Student Engagement Platform

Among the most important aspects of a college campus is how and what opportunities it provides students to get involved on campus. A powerful student engagement platform stimulates involvement.

It provides students with a one-stop shop for exploring all that their campus has to offer. Available on the web or mobile, students can in one click, view campus programming, register for events, join student clubs and organizations, and connect with fellow students or mentors.

Being able to trigger student involvement in-person and virtually is very important. Some of the most successful student engagement platforms include innovative features such as the ability to host a virtual fair or mentoring session. The more innovative systems also automatically match students to organizations or other students based on their user profile and listed interests.

Virtual communication gives people the flexibility to choose the best way for them to interact. Having the option to engage virtually—on the web or via mobile—is a great way to cater to students that may be intimidated by large on-campus events. It may also be the preferred method of communication for many.

Some student engagement platforms also include gamification. This is a great way to keep a large number of students engaged and reward them for engaging. The tracking and reporting features of these platforms are also key to measuring student success and retaining students.

First generation students represent progress for a family or community. They also serve to inspire younger generation family members. It is therefore very important for colleges to cater to this demographic, providing them with the right resources and support they need to succeed. With the right tools, first generation students can have a very successful college experience, graduating to pursue the career of their choice.

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