First Generation College Students: Best Practices

Trailblazing the college jungle as a first-generation college student – you’re not alone.

You’ve applied and been accepted, and now you’re mentally preparing for college. But as a first-generation college student, you may not have a clear idea of what college will actually be like. Preparation is key. The best practice tips that follow are mostly about tapping resources that exist on campus. For even more resources tailored to exactly what the first generation student needs, check out this excellent website:  www.FirstGenerationStudent.com

What to Expect at College

Remember That You’re Not Alone! How to Find Support While in College

It’s important to recognize that attending college will be a new chapter in your life—one that can be daunting at times and frustrating at other times. Colleges are one step ahead of you. Many offer a wide selection of tutoring centers and support services, plus counseling centers where advisers are ready and willing to ease your transition between high school and college. However, only you can recognize when you need help, so don’t let a bad grade turn into a failing grade before you check out suggestions about where to look for an extra boost of encouragement and guidance to keep you on track toward earning your college degree.

Designing the Best Schedule

Choosing your schedule in college is nothing like registering for high school classes. Unlike high school where you likely have pretty limited offerings, the average college catalog has a BIG variety of classes and times. So how do you choose what to take? The best practice idea is to meet with a college academic adviser who can give you a good idea of what you need to take and when. Advisers also are trained to recognize which courses have prerequisites that you need to meet prior to enrolling. And don’t forget to ask them for tips on how to create your perfect schedule while balancing study, work and personal time.

Deciding Your Major

First-generation college students are by definition driven. You’ve worked hard to get where you are and it’s likely that you think you know what major best suits you because you’ve not only planned for college, you’ve planned for your dream career. Nevertheless, be open to exploring other subjects. For those of you who are still undeclared, plan on settling into a major by your sophomore year in order to complete the major’s prerequisites and the major course work without having to be a fifth-year senior.