Being a first-generation student can mean different things to different people and different institutions. At SIUE (Southern Illinois University Edwardsville), First-Generation students come from families where neither parent completed a bachelor’s degree. We have curated a list of resources to help First-Gen students and their families navigate the University setting. Remember though, you are not alone. The staff in Student Success and the Office of Academic Advising are committed to our first-gen students' success.
Tips for first-generation college students
- Seek academic support resources early
One of the biggest struggles first-generation students encounter is lack of family support. Seek assistance as soon as possible by accessing tutoring and other academic support services.
- Partner with other students
Seek out a study partner or group who genuinely care about your success. Make sure the students you are studying with are highly-motivated learners.
- Get Involved
Feeling a sense of belonging is important to your success in college. Join a club or organization that aligns with your personal interests. Additionally, seek out a club that connects with your academic interests in order to connect with upperclassmen who have taken the same classes you are taking.
- Build your support system
As you enter college and are in a new environment it is important to find the resources you need to have a support system that you can trust. This may include family members, advisors, mentors, friends, counselors, and success coaches. Be willing to respond to and reach out to these services on campus.
- Access financial support
Seek out opportunities for other forms of scholarship and financial support. Scholly is a app that can help you identify scholarship opportunities. Check with your local organizations and churches as well for possible assistance.
- Don’t overload yourself
A common mistake is underestimating the amount of time you need to spend on coursework. Be cautious about working too many hours or having too many extracurricular involvements. We suggest students plan to work outside of class twice as much as they are meeting in class. If you enrolled in 15 credit hours, you should plan to spend 30 hours a week outside of class preparing and completing work for the class.
- Believe in yourself
Don’t doubt your abilities. College will be a lot of work. You may feel like others are succeeding and you are not here. Don’t let them fool you. Others may just be hiding their feelings about how well they are doing. You belong here and you can do it!
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