BE THE FIRST:
Information for First-Generation College Students
If you're the first person in your family to go to college, it can be both an exciting and unknown prospect at the same time. Here are some guidelines to help you better prepare for your college experience as a first-in-the-family student:
GET TO KNOW THEM :: Counselors are there to answer questions and help with college planning, so be sure you get to know your counselor early on during high school — and remember to let them know you're the first in your family to attend college.
IN THE LOOP :: Keep your parents informed about your college search, and make sure they know what needs to be done — and when — because it's a first-time experience for everybody involved. Remember things like registering for ACT/SAT testing, attending college fairs and bringing your family to financial aid workshops and presentations at your school.
TEAM UP :: Find out if there are any mentoring programs connected with your school or in your community to help you prepare for college, and if so, take advantage of the opportunity to meet with somebody who graduated from college.
ONCE YOU'RE THERE :: See if your college offers counseling or tutoring services for first-generation students. Programs like these can help you get acclimated faster to the new environment and schedule that comes with college.
