Center for First-Generation Scholars

Empowering first-generation scholars to achieve their
educational goals and realize their potential.

The FDU Center for First-Generation Scholars empowers students to unlock their full potential through tailored support, mentorship, and resources. The Center fosters a community of resilience, ambition, and academic excellence, to help students navigate their journey in higher education and beyond.

Who is a First-Generation Scholar?

• A college student whose parents did not complete a bachelor’s degree in the U.S.
• For single-parent households, the parent with whom the student resides did not complete a bachelor’s degree in the U.S.

Support Offered to First-Generation Scholars

We recognize that many of our students have not had prior exposure to or access to family or other mentors with knowledge of navigating university life and would find the Center’s resources helpful, especially in the transition to the university. Please know that the Center is here for you all. Whether you’re looking for support, community, resources, or just a friendly space to connect with others who share similar questions, we encourage you to visit the Center and get involved. 

• A welcoming and inclusive environment where first-generation students feel valued, supported, and connected.
• Resources and services that address first-generation students’ unique needs and challenges, including academic support, financial literacy, career guidance, and personal development.
• Promoting awareness and understanding of the first-generation student experience among faculty, staff, and peers.
• Fostering a sense of belonging and community among first-generation students through networking opportunities, mentorship programs, and social events.
• Advocating for policies and practices that enhance the success and well-being of first-generation students.

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