First-Generation College Students

First-generation college students often need special guidance as the first in their family to navigate higher education.

Being the first to do anything can be an exciting experience. It can make you feel courageous and proud, excited and powerful. And you may have moments of overwhelming responsibility, worry, doubt and confusion.

First-generation college students face many challenges, and you should know you are not alone. Whether you’re a recent high-school graduate or an adult learner who has been out of the classroom for decades, Tidewater Community College has support systems to help you succeed.

Here are some of the resources to help you fulfill your dream of a college education:

• Advising and Student Success Coordinators – These staff support new students to improve learning during their first year of college.
• Orientation – These new student orientation sessions provide an opportunity for those individuals who are important in the lives of our students to learn more about how to support their student in transitioning to TCC.
• Open Door Project – Offered on the Norfolk and Portsmouth campuses, this federally-funded program helps participants improve their academic performance, stay in college and graduate.
• Summer Bridge Programs – Designed to bridge the gap between high school and college, the summer bridge program at the Portsmouth campus provide high school students who plan to attend TCC with an orientation to the campus environment and college life.