Are you the first in your family to go to college?

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

First Generation college students face many challenges and you should know you are not alone.

The following resources may enhance and support your college experience so that you can fulfill your dream of a college education.

We encourage you to visit the Counseling Office to discuss any issues or concerns.

For more information on being a first generation student, visit the following sites:

ACE Program

Virginia Beach Student Services

First Generation College Students – University of Illinois

Tips to Help First Generation College Students Beat the Odds

Tips for First Generation College Students

The Biggest Obstacle for First Generation College Students

First Generation Focus

First In the Family - Your College Years: View 6 Audio Slide Shows for First Generation Students!

Multicultural Resources

www.blackexcel.org

A comprehensive resource for African-American families and first generation students.  Includes information on preparing for college, scholarships, historically black colleges (including virtual tours).

www.chci.org

Website of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute offers lists of scholarships, opportunities, and youth organizations for Hispanic and other minority students.  From the home page , click on “Education Center” and follow the link for “Educational Resources” or any others that interest you.

www.saabnational.org

Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) increases the number of African American and Latino men who graduate from college by creating a positive peer community based on a spirit of caring. 

SAAB chapters are located at the Virginia Beach Campus and Norfolk Campus.

Succeeding in College

www.collegeboard.com

Go to the “Students” section.  Under the header “Plan for College”, click on “College Success”.

Paying for College

www.studentaid.ed.gov

Available in English or Spanish, the Student Guide is a comprehensive resource on student financial aid from the US Dept. of Education.

www.studentaid.org

The National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators provides information on the financial aid process for students and parents.  You can download an excellent document on what college students need to know about credit card use.

www.collegeboard.com

Useful tool for finding and applying to college.  Offers useful interactive tool called “My Organizer”.  Also see “Pay for College”.

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