As a first-generation college student, I always knew that I was going to attend college. It was not an option. I always knew that I was going to graduate from college. It was not an option. It was everything else that I did not know, which included applying to colleges, seeking out financial aid (I had no idea that I was eligible to receive pell grants until I was a junior), wondering what questions to ask, meeting with an academic advisor and utilizing campus resources. [Read more…] about Dr. Tracey Glaessgen, Center for Academic Success and Transition

First-generation college students are pioneers for their families in the strange land of higher education. I was the first person in my family to attend and complete college. My parents both have 8th grade educations from a one-room country schoolhouse. [Read more…] about Celebrating First-Generation College Students by Dr. Cindy MacGregor

My name is Christina Bowles, and I am proud to be a First-Generation college graduate. When I graduated from high school, I had no idea that I would eventually go on to receive two Master’s degrees—I didn’t even know what a Master’s degree was! Since neither of my parents went to college, they offered me a lot of support, but often didn’t have the answers or advice that I desperately needed. Thankfully, I was able to connect with faculty and staff on campus who guided me along the way. [Read more…] about Christina Bowles, Academic Advising and Transfer Center

I grew up on a family farm in New England. My father was one of the hardest working individuals I have ever met. He and my mother provided for 8 children and worked 7 days a week, 15-18 hours per day. He would always encourage my siblings and I to get an education. None of my siblings pursued advanced degrees beyond high school. I am the youngest of family and when I showed an interest in going to college he and my Mom were excited. [Read more…] about Dr. Ronald Del Vecchio, Darr College of Agriculture

Although I thought I was studying and doing well, I received a C at midterms in one course during my first year and was completely shocked. I was always a straight A student in high school. I started to wonder if I could even be successful in college. I had so much self-doubt and felt so much pressure to do well. My sister had dropped out and I was the youngest so it was all up to me! [Read more…] about Tracy Stout, Head of Research and Instructional Services