{"id":4686,"date":"2024-06-07T11:38:40","date_gmt":"2024-06-07T06:08:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/?p=4686"},"modified":"2024-06-07T11:38:40","modified_gmt":"2024-06-07T06:08:40","slug":"first-generation-college-student","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/first-generation-college-student","title":{"rendered":"First Generation College Student: Definition, Challenges and Tips for Students"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">College can be a whirlwind for anyone, but for first-generation students, it can feel like going through a whole new world. If you (or someone you know) are about to embark on this exciting journey, you might be wondering: what exactly does \u201cfirst-generation\u201d mean? This blog will break down everything you need to know about being a first-generation college student, from the official definition to the unique experiences you might encounter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/first-generation-college-student\/#What_is_a_First-Generation_College_Student\" title=\"What is a First-Generation College Student?\">What is a First-Generation College Student?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/first-generation-college-student\/#Challenges_Faced_by_First-Generation_College_Students\" title=\"Challenges Faced by First-Generation College Students\">Challenges Faced by First-Generation College Students<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/first-generation-college-student\/#5_Tips_for_First-Generation_College_Students\" title=\"5 Tips for First-Generation College Students\">5 Tips for First-Generation College Students<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/first-generation-college-student\/#From_the_Desk_of_ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳\" title=\"From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳\">From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/first-generation-college-student\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_First-Generation_College_Student\"><\/span><strong>What is a First-Generation College Student?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">In the broadest sense, a first-generation college student comes from a family with no history of attending college. Many FGCS come from low-income backgrounds with limited exposure to higher education. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www2.ed.gov\/about\/offices\/list\/ope\/trio\/triohea.pdf\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">federal Higher Education Act<\/a>, which determines eligibility for financial aid, defines an FGCS as someone whose custodial parents (those living with the student) lack a bachelor\u2019s degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">However, there\u2019s no single, universally agreed-upon definition of a first-generation college student (FGCS). High school counselors and college admissions officers grapple with the specifics: Does having one parent with a college degree disqualify someone? Does the type of degree (bachelor\u2019s vs. associate\u2019s) matter? What if a college-educated parent isn\u2019t actively involved in the student\u2019s life?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Therefore, colleges and educational associations often have their own definitions. They may identify first-generation students through questions about parental education history on the <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/common-app\">Common Application<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">While enrollment rates for these students are rising, graduation rates remain a challenge. Over half of all college students can be considered first-generation, as defined by the <a href=\"https:\/\/firstgen.naspa.org\/files\/dmfile\/FactSheet-01.pdf\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Center for First-Generation Student Success<\/a>: neither parent holds a bachelor\u2019s degree. By the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) standards, 37% of undergrads in 2016 were first-gen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.insidehighered.com\/news\/2015\/11\/10\/who-are-first-generation-students-and-how-do-they-fare\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">2002 study with over 7,300 students<\/a> revealed the \u201cfirst-generation\u201d label could encompass anywhere from 22% to 77% of participants, depending on the definition used. This variability likely applies across institutions nationwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Despite rising enrollment, FGCS often faces steeper odds of graduation. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.voced.edu.au\/content\/ngv%3A64786\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Research suggests<\/a> they are more likely to be older Black or Hispanic women from low-income communities with dependents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Fortunately, a growing number of high schools, colleges, and organizations are recognizing the specific needs of first-generation students. FGCS who take <a href=\"https:\/\/hechingerreport.org\/how-educational-opportunity-programs-graduate-first-generation-college-students\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">advantage of these resources and programs<\/a> have a better chance of graduating with a bachelor\u2019s degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons eplus-wrapper is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-16018d1d wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\" wp-block-button eplus-wrapper\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-white-color has-luminous-vivid-orange-background-color has-text-color has-background has-link-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/profile-consultation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Book a Free Consultation Call<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Challenges_Faced_by_First-Generation_College_Students\"><\/span><strong>Challenges Faced by First-Generation College Students<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>1. Unfamiliar environment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Entering college can be overwhelming, especially for those without a family blueprint. Even supportive parents may not know how to navigate the <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/college-application-process\">college application process<\/a>, while others might not fully endorse their children\u2019s college aspirations. This lack of guidance makes everything, from college selection to application procedures, a difficult and unfamiliar journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>2. Financial strain<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">First-generation students are more likely to come from low-income backgrounds, making the cost of tuition, housing, and textbooks a significant burden. Balancing work, academics, and personal life to make ends meet adds significant stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>3. Cultural and social adjustment<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The transition to college life can be isolating, particularly for students whose families haven\u2019t experienced higher education. They may struggle to find a sense of belonging and adapt to the college culture, compared to students from backgrounds where higher education is the norm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>4. Lack of support networks<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">First-generation students often lack the built-in support networks that their peers take for granted. This absence, especially when unfamiliar with the complexities of academic life, can lead to feelings of imposter syndrome and self-doubt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>5. Academic preparedness<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Pre-college disparities can impact academic preparedness. First-generation students may have had limited access to resources like AP courses, diverse extracurricular activities (ECs), and college counseling. This lack of preparation may translate to fewer opportunities on campus, such as leadership roles, faculty research projects, paid internships, and study abroad programs, compared to continuing-generation students.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>6. Mental health struggles<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">The cumulative effect of these challenges can take a toll on mental health. The stress of adapting to a new environment, financial pressures, and academic expectations can lead to anxiety and other mental health issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Read also: <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/college-acceptance-rates\">Class of 2027 College Acceptance Rates<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Tips_for_First-Generation_College_Students\"><\/span><strong>5 Tips for First-Generation College Students<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Many institutions actively seek to diversify their campuses and welcome first-generation, low-income, and minority students. Higher education as a whole is placing a greater emphasis on overcoming adversity in the admissions process. Here are five ways FGCS can increase their chances of success in college:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>1. Free resources<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">School counselors can help students explore career interests, plan course schedules aligned with college aspirations, and stay informed about deadlines for applications, financial aid, and entrance exams. Unfortunately, counselors at under-resourced high schools may be overloaded or lack knowledge of specific programs and opportunities. Organizations like Minds Matter and Summer Search bridge this gap by providing mentorship specifically geared towards encouraging first-generation and low-income students to apply to a wider range of colleges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>2. Educational Opportunity Programs (EOPs)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">EOPs, offered by many colleges, serve as a bridge between high school and college for low-income and first-generation students. These programs provide crucial support, including summer preparatory courses that introduce students to challenging college-level coursework, particularly in rigorous subjects like advanced math. This exposure is essential for success, even for FGCS with strong grades and test scores. EOPs empower students to understand course expectations and feel confident in their ability to meet them. Eligibility for EOPs is typically based on family income and demonstrated student interest, and these programs are usually available to in-state students at public colleges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>3. Be open to learning<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Beyond academics, understanding the unspoken social norms of college can be difficult for FGCS. Students from families with no college experience may be unfamiliar with how to interact with professors, seek out research opportunities, or utilize other valuable resources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>4. Build a support network<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Surround yourself with peers who share your goals and understand your background. Seek out mentors, professors, or advisors who can offer guidance and encouragement. Many colleges have first-generation student organizations that provide a sense of community and belonging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>5. Prioritize self-care<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">College can be stressful, and prioritizing mental and physical well-being is crucial for success. Take advantage of campus resources like counseling centers, health services, and stress-reduction workshops. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced sleep, exercise, and a nutritious diet will help you perform at your best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Suggested: <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/blog\/college-waitlist\">College Waitlist<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"From_the_Desk_of_ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳\"><\/span><strong>From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">First-generation college students are inspiring. They represent the breaking of barriers and the pursuit of knowledge against potentially unfamiliar odds. Their journey to higher education is often paved with a unique set of challenges. They might lack a frame of reference for understanding the college application process, financial aid options, or the social dynamics of campus life. Additionally, the pressure to succeed can be immense, carrying the hopes and aspirations of their families on their shoulders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Despite these challenges, first-generation students bring valuable strengths to the table. Their determination and resilience are often forged by overcoming obstacles. They may possess a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the opportunity to learn and grow. Their experiences can also foster a sense of independence and resourcefulness as they navigate unfamiliar territory. Also, <a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/\">yocket<\/a> can provide additional support and resources, helping first-generation students connect with peers and mentors who understand their unique journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped eplus-wrapper wp-block-gallery-1\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large eplus-wrapper\"><a href=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/profile-consultation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" data-id=\"6414\" src=\"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/Web-10-1536x360-6-1024x240.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-6414\"\/><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\" wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity eplus-wrapper\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Who is a First-Generation College Student?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">A first-generation college student is someone whose parents (or guardians) haven\u2019t completed a four-year college degree. This can include situations where parents started but never finished a degree or attended a two-year community college.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Am I still considered First-Gen if my siblings went to college?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Generally, yes. If neither biological parent has a four-year degree, you\u2019re still considered first-gen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\" wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper\"><strong>Are there any challenges First-Generation Students face?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\" eplus-wrapper\">Yes, first-generation students can face challenges. Understanding college applications, financial aid, and campus life can be unfamiliar territory. They may also feel pressure to succeed for their families or experience imposter syndrome.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>College can be a whirlwind for anyone, but for first-generation students, it can feel like going through a whole new world. If you (or someone you know) are about to embark on this exciting journey, you might be wondering: what exactly does \u201cfirst-generation\u201d mean? This blog will break down everything you need to know about [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7323,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[21],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4686","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4686","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4686"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4686\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/7323"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4686"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4686"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/yocket.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4686"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}