Targeted support to enhance retention among first-generation students 

Four strategies to help first-gen students succeed in higher education

Here are four ideas for targeted support programmes to help these students navigate the academic and social challenges of starting university:

Mentorship programmes

Mentorship programmes play a critical role in the success and retention of first-generation students. Mentoring can provide guidance and support as they navigate academic and social challenges, set goals and make informed decisions about their educational and career paths. Mentors also offer a supportive relationship for those who may feel isolated on campus and so create a sense of belonging.

Cultural celebration and events

In promoting awareness and understanding and celebrating diverse cultures, identities and perspectives, institutions can create an inclusive and welcoming environment for first-generation students. Examples of cultural initiatives include:

a welcome reception for admitted first-generation students hosted by the university’s admissions office, first-generation student support and first-gen alumni

a Welcome Week event for first-generation students that includes first-gen peer mentors and the first-generation student organisation

a graduation ceremony for first-gen students

marking the US national First-Generation College Celebration Day on your campus.

Transition programmes

Transition programmes create opportunities for first-generation students to build connections with peers, faculty and staff and introduce them to campus culture. Students are introduced to campus resources and support services that can help them succeed both academically and socially. These programmes can also assist them in building a road map for their college journey. Examples of transition programmes include summer bridge programmes (which are typically one or two months long) and living-learning communities (which are run during the academic year).

Financial literacy workshops

Findings show that the financial decisions students make in college impact their financial status after college. Institutions may want to offer one-credit-hour courses such as personal finance or financial life skills. A course covering the foundation of financial literacy could help to close the wealth gap for first-generation students. It could cover the following basics of financial management:

budgeting (by understanding their incomes and expenses, students can avoid overspending)

debt management (this can help students learn about repayment options, interest rates and the importance of paying their bills on time)

investing (this can help students understand the importance of diversification and long-term financial planning)

building credit (how to use credit responsibly, making debt payments on time and the importance of building a strong credit history)

salary negotiation (how to negotiate for higher pay and the value of benefits).

While many targeted programmes exist to support first-generation students, it is important to assess the needs of the specific population that your institution serves before implementation. The initiatives outlined here can serve as a start or addition to first-generation student programming already in place.

By Charmaine Troy is associate director of first-generation student initiatives at Georgia Tech.