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Tips to Support Your First-Gen Student  

What defines a first-generation college student? A first-generation college student is someone whose parents have not earned a degree from a four-year college or university. As a parent or loved one, it's important to recognize that these students often navigate a distinctive college journey—one that is shaped by resilience, determination, and a strong sense of purpose. Understanding and supporting their experience can play a vital role in their success. While they may be the first in their families to attend college, many first-generation students carry with them the values, work ethic, and support of their families and communities, which serve as powerful assets in their academic and personal growth.

Here Are Five Tips for Supporting Your First-Gen Student:

Tip #1: Expect & Embrace Change

The change that comes with navigating UC San Diego can be a scary & an exciting experience for first-generation students and their families. As your first-generation student embarks on this new journey, they may face challenges with adapting to major changes that will come their way such as finding a sense of belonging and experiencing imposter syndrome. (feeling like an imposter) phenomenon. While this process may be challenging, it is important to still support them through these changes and reaffirm that they are prepared for this new journey.

Tip #2: Create a Safe Space to Talk About Their Experiences

Many first-generation students described their college experience to be isolating because of different experiences like not having many peers who share this experience or sometimes feeling like they cannot talk to their family since they may not understand what they are going through. Therefore, to help alleviate this sense of isolation, we encourage you to engage in conversations with your first-generation students to talk about their experiences. Ask engaging question such as: "What's your favorite class? ", "Have you gotten involved with clubs on campus? ", "Who is your favorite professor?", "Have you made friends?", "What's a new experience you had recently?"

Tip #3: Eliminate the First-Gen Guilt

Since your UC San Diego student may be the first in the family to attend college, they may be feeling a sense of guilt leaving the family to obtain their degree. This guilt can be heavy on the student, but we want to remind you as loved ones to take the initiative in reminding your students of the value of obtaining an education and their why. Reminding them that back home will always be home, and their loved ones are happy and rooting for them.

Tip #4: It’s Okay to Ask for Help

First-generation students can feel a weight on their shoulders for being the first in the family to pursue a degree, often times having higher expectations for themselves. Understanding the college experience consists of navigating successes and challenges, therefore encouraging them to learn and grow as a person. Reassure your first-gen student that this is okay and that it is all part of the growing process. Continue to show them that you are proud of them, while encouraging them to seek help from professional staff, faculty or resources on campus.

Tip #5: Celebrate your First-Gen Student

Celebrating the small and big wins with your first-gen student will allow them to feel supported throughout their journey. Continue to remind them that you are proud of them. Your support, encouragement, and love play a vital role in helping first-generation students reach their educational goals and thrive.

In accordance with applicable Federal and State law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate, or grant preferences, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories.