Resources for First-Generation Students

One thing that I am really proud about is being a first-generation student. Although it was not until I was in graduate school that I really understood the impact of being a first generation college student.

The main realization I had is: “You don’t know what you don’t know.” This phrase resonates deeply, particularly among first-generation college students who have not grown up with discussions about attending a university. As a result, they may be unfamiliar with the process, unaware of the questions to ask, and oblivious to the areas where they lack knowledge.

The purpose of this page is to offer valuable advice to first-generation students and their parents, drawing from my personal experience. It aims to guide them through the journey of pursuing higher education and provide insights that can alleviate any uncertainties along the way. By sharing my own learnings, I hope to empower and support this dedicated group of individuals on their path to success.

University Terminology

When you start at a university people will be using terms and acronyms that you have never heard before, never be afraid to ask people to clarify these terms.

In 2019, Kirsten Slyter at Rasmussen University published “The Ultimate Glossary of College Terminology”. This article details over a hundred university specific terms. Acronyms relevant to MSU can be found here.

The difference between a B.S. and B.A.

When enrolling in a program, you may be given the option to enroll in a major with a B.S. (Bachelor of Science) or B.A. (Bachelor of Arts). Typically, a B.S. degree emphasizes math and science, while a B.A. focuses on humanities. Choosing between a B.S. and B.A. will depend on personal preference and career goals. If your focus is STEM, a B.S. is advised because it will be more specialized than a B.A. However, some liberal arts colleges (e.g., Augustana College) only offer B.A.’s and have numerous STEM-focused students.

Student Loans and Paying for College

Most first-generation college students will have to take out loans or work during college to afford to go to school. The cost of college can seem daunting and can cost thousands, even tens of thousands, per year.

Fellowships and grants are great things to apply to, they are in essence free money. You don’t have to pay them back and they can help you complete your degree debt free!

Loans are another story, you have to pay these back. They can come from a the government or a private source and typically range from a 4-9% interest rate. Some loans (subsidized loans) don’t require you to pay interest when you are in school, others (unsubsidized) loans collect interest while you are in school. If you need a loan, get a subsidized loan. These loans are awarded, in the US, by applying to FASFA.

Looking for ways to ease the financial burden of college? Consider the option of working part-time during the year or summer breaks. Universities often offer various paid opportunities such as resident advisors, teaching assistants, research assistants, tutors, and positions in facilities or dining halls. Not only can these jobs provide a decent income, but they also allow for the development of valuable skills and knowledge.

During my undergraduate career I took out loans, was awarded fellowships, worked in the cafeteria, was a tutor, a teaching assistant, and a research assistant. Each job was valuable and taught me different skills.

Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome is a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a fraud. Despite external evidence of their competence, those experiencing imposter syndrome believe they are undeserving and convince themselves that their success is due to luck rather than their abilities.

3 Tips to Overcome Imposter Syndrome:

Recognize and challenge self-doubt: Acknowledge that imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon and that many high-achieving individuals experience it. Challenge your negative thoughts and question the validity of your self-doubt. Remind yourself of your achievements and the skills that have brought you success.
Seek support and share your feelings: talk to friends, mentors, or colleagues about your experience with imposter syndrome. Sharing your feelings can provide reassurance, foster connection, and help you gain perspective on your accomplishments. Remember, you are not alone in feeling this way.
Focus on self-compassion and self-care: Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness and understanding. Instead of criticizing yourself for perceived shortcomings, embrace self-care practices that promote your well-being. Take breaks, engage in activities you enjoy, prioritize self-care, and remind yourself that you are worthy of success.

Remember, overcoming imposter syndrome takes time and effort. By recognizing self-doubt, seeking support, and prioritizing self-compassion, you can gradually diminish the impact of imposter syndrome and embrace your achievements with confidence.

Learn who your Advisor is and Communicate with them Regularly

Remember, finding the right advisor is a critical step towards achieving your goals. Take the time to assess your needs, seek recommendations, and thoroughly research potential advisors to make an informed decision.

Define your goals and needs: Before seeking an advisor, take the time to clearly define what you hope to achieve and the specific areas in which you need guidance. Understanding your goals will help you identify an advisor with the right expertise and experience to assist you.
Seek recommendations and referrals: Ask for recommendations from trusted friends, colleagues, or mentors who have worked with advisors in the past. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into an advisor’s competence, communication style, and effectiveness.
Research and vet potential advisors: Conduct thorough research on potential advisors. Look into their qualifications, experience, and track record.

What to do if you are Undecided

If you’re feeling undecided about your academic path at university, there are a few steps you can take to help you make a decision:

Self-reflection: Take the time to reflect on your interests, strengths, and values. Consider what subjects or activities truly excite you and align with your personal goals and values.
Research: Explore various academic disciplines and career options related to your interests. Look into the courses, majors, and programs offered by your university. Speak with academic advisors, professors, or professionals in fields you find interesting.
Seek guidance: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from university counselors, academic advisors, or mentors. They can provide valuable insights and support during this decision-making process.
Try different courses: Take advantage of elective courses or introductory classes to explore different subject areas. This hands-on experience can help you gauge your level of interest and compatibility with various fields of study.
Consider your long-term goals: Reflect on your future goals and how your chosen field of study may align with those goals. Research potential career opportunities and growth prospects in different fields to ensure they resonate with your aspirations.
Explore extracurricular activities: Engage in extracurricular activities or clubs related to different academic disciplines. This can provide you with a glimpse into the practical applications and real-world experiences associated with those fields.
Seek advice from others: Talk to friends, family, or mentors who have gone through a similar situation. Their experiences and insights can provide valuable perspectives and help you make a more informed decision.

Remember, it’s natural to feel undecided at times, and it’s okay to change your mind as you explore different possibilities. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this process and trust that with time and reflection, you will discover the academic path that aligns with your goals and passions.

Do you need to go to College?

Attending college can be a significant investment of time, money, and energy. It is crucial to carefully consider your goals and aspirations before enrolling. A well-thought-out decision about pursuing a higher education should be based on an understanding of the specific career path you wish to pursue, along with an awareness that acquiring a degree is often a necessary stepping stone in achieving that objective. By assessing your passions, interests, and long-term aspirations, you can effectively determine whether a college education aligns with your personal and professional goals.

The Importance of Internships

Internships are pivotal experiences for professional development, providing numerous benefits and advantages for individuals pursuing their career goals. Here are three key reasons why internships are important:

Real-World Experience: Internships offer invaluable opportunities to gain practical, hands-on experience in a specific industry or profession. By working in a real-world setting, interns are exposed to the practical challenges, dynamics, and intricacies of their chosen field. This experience helps them bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, enhancing their understanding of the industry and boosting their skill set.
Networking: The connections made during internships can be instrumental in kick-starting one’s career. Interns have the chance to interact with professionals, mentors, and potential employers who can provide guidance, mentorship, and future employment prospects. Building a strong professional network early on can open doors to new opportunities and pave the way for long-term success.
Skill Development: Internships offer a unique platform for honing essential skills and acquiring new ones. In addition to gaining industry-specific knowledge, interns develop critical soft skills such as communication, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving. These transferrable skills are highly valued by employers and can significantly increase employability prospects in today’s competitive job market.

Overall, internships provide a practical and effective route for personal and professional growth. They allow individuals to explore various career paths, develop essential skills, and establish connections that can shape their future success. Whether during or after college, taking advantage of internship opportunities can prove to be a wise investment in one’s future.

The Importance of Networking

One reason why networking is important is that it facilitates career growth and opportunities. By connecting with professionals in your field or industry, you can gain access to job openings, learn about potential career paths, and receive valuable advice and guidance from experienced individuals. Networking allows you to expand your professional circle and increase your visibility within your industry, which can lead to new opportunities and advancements in your career.

Here are 50 helpful terms for first-generation students:

Academic Advising: Guidance provided by an academic advisor to help plan course schedules, choose majors, and navigate academic requirements.
FAFSA: Free Application for Federal Student Aid, a form used to determine eligibility for financial aid.
Pell Grant: A need-based federal grant for undergraduate students with exceptional financial need.
Work-Study: A program that provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, often on-campus.
EFC: Expected Family Contribution, a measure of how much a student’s family can contribute towards their education expenses.
GPA: Grade Point Average, a numerical representation of a student’s academic performance.
Syllabus: An outline of a course including the schedule, assignments, and expectations provided at the beginning of the term.
Registrar: The office responsible for maintaining student records, including transcripts and course registration.
Major: The primary area of study chosen by a student, leading to a degree in a specific field.
Minor: A secondary area of study chosen by a student, complementing their major.
General Education Requirements: A set of courses that provide a broad foundation of knowledge required for graduation.
Scholarships: Financial aid awarded based on merit, need, or specific criteria.
Grants: Financial aid that does not need to be repaid, often awarded based on need.
Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest after graduation.
Campus Resources: Services and facilities offered by the university, such as libraries, career centers, and tutoring centers.
Internship: A period of work experience related to a student’s major, often done for academic credit.
Mentor: An experienced individual who provides guidance and support to a less-experienced person, such as a faculty member or upperclassman.
Office Hours: Designated times when professors are available to meet with students outside of class.
Research Opportunities: Projects or assignments that involve conducting research, usually under the guidance of a faculty member.
Study Abroad: Opportunities to live and study in a different country while earning academic credits.
Residency: The process of establishing legal residency for tuition purposes.
Transfer Student: A student who moves from one college or university to another.
Degree Audit: A systematic review of a student’s academic progress towards meeting degree requirements.
Dual Enrollment: A program that allows high school students to enroll in college-level courses for credit.
Time Management: Skills and strategies for effectively allocating time to various tasks and responsibilities.
Financial Literacy: Knowledge and skills related to managing personal finances, budgeting, and debt management.
Tutoring: Academic assistance provided by qualified individuals to help students understand and succeed in their coursework.
Networking: Building professional relationships and connections in areas of interest.
Imposter Syndrome: Feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt despite achievements and qualifications.
Accessibility Services: Support and accommodations provided to students with disabilities.
Academic Probation: A warning status given to students whose GPA falls below a certain threshold.
Extracurricular Activities: Non-academic activities, clubs, or organizations that provide additional learning and social opportunities.
Residence Life: Services and programs related to living on-campus, including dormitories and housing communities.
Wellness Center: A facility or office that offers resources for physical and mental health, counseling, and support.
Commuter Student: A student who lives off-campus and travels to campus for classes.
Alumni: Graduates of a university or college.
College Catalog: A publication that provides official information about degree programs, courses, policies, and requirements.
Orientation: A program or event designed to help new students become familiar with the campus, resources, and services.
Academic Integrity: Maintaining honest and ethical conduct in academic work, including avoiding plagiarism.
Free Tutoring: Tutoring services offered at no cost to students, often provided by the university or student organizations.
Time-Management Apps: Mobile applications designed to help individuals manage their time and tasks efficiently.
Career Services: Resources and support for career exploration, job/internship search, and resume development.
Student Success Center: An office or department that provides resources and support for academic success.
Financial Aid Office: The department responsible for administering financial aid programs and assisting students with financial aid-related matters.
Health Insurance: Coverage for medical expenses, often required for students attending college.
Mental Health Services: Counseling and support services for students’ emotional well-being.
Cooperative Education Program (Co-op): An educational program that combines classroom learning with practical work experience related to the student’s major.
Graduation Requirements: The specific courses, credits, and criteria that must be fulfilled to earn a degree.
Undergraduate Research: Opportunities for students to engage in hands-on research projects with faculty members.
Postgraduate Plans: Future educational or career aspirations after completing an undergraduate degree.

~This content is compiled from my personal experience and external resources, feel free to copy content to share with others! ~