Starting college as a first-generation student is a huge milestone — you’re the trailblazer of your family, stepping boldly into uncharted territory. But behind this story is the reality that you have to juggle so many roles. We’ll explore first-generation college student problems and offer practical advice and tools for you to survive and thrive from college application to graduation. ✨
- How to Face Limited Family Support and Guidance
- How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
- How to Balance Academic and Personal Responsibilities
- How to Be Financially Literate
- How to Take Care of Mental and Physical Health
- Helpful Resources for First-Generation College Students
- Common Struggles of First-Generation College Students (And How to Overcome Them): Frequently Asked Questions
How to Face Limited Family Support and Guidance
Your parents are proud to finally have a college student in the family, but they’re likely clueless about college applications or financial aid since they haven’t gone through the process. So, it’s best to seek advice from external sources.
Visit your school’s counseling office, attend your college’s bridge programs, and explore online tutorials and step-by-step guides created for first-generation college students. 💻
In some unfortunate cases, you may be greeted with indifference due to hidden resentment or fear over your achievements. Tara Westover, the author of Educated, experienced this firsthand; her father, opposed to formal education, believed college was “extra school for people too dumb to learn the first time around.”
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Feeling that lack of needed support can be difficult, but stay true to your goals while acknowledging your family’s feelings. For example, talk about how your education can give you a high-paying job that will bring in more money for the family. 🫂
How to Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Downplaying accomplishments and second-guessing their place are common struggles of first-generation college students. Asking for help is also easier said than done since you’re not sure if people will understand your situation.
First-generation college student Lyric Swinton had similar thoughts while pursuing student leadership positions. “There was always a little voice inside my head that created doubt, wondering if I was there just because I was valued, or was I there because diversity and inclusion were good buzzwords and my face fit the bill.” 💭
When these thoughts trouble you, find representation to be reminded that you can achieve success like the role models who came before you. Find out if your target college has first-generation faculty, established targeted support programs, or visible communities with students from similar backgrounds. 👍
TIP: You can check the I’m First program to find colleges that support first-generation college students.
How to Balance Academic and Personal Responsibilities
Before entering college, you may have been expected to watch over younger siblings, help out in the family store, or attend every family gathering. But college is a different playing field demanding much of your time. You’re learning how to study effectively, work part-time jobs to pay off student loans, and juggle extracurricular obligations. 😓
So, how do you solve this first-generation college student problem? Set boundaries! Explain how your academic responsibilities affect your availability with your family while creating a weekly schedule that allows time for college, personal, and social aspects of your life.
You could also use campus resources like tutoring to speed up your reviewing time or find work-study programs or on-campus jobs to cut down on commute time and earn at the same time. 💸
READ MORE: 7 Awesome Ways Colleges Support Student Parents
How to Be Financially Literate
Being a first-generation college student can mean that your family may find higher education too expensive. Discussing finances may feel strange, but it’s crucial to learn at least the basics and make a student budget to avoid unintentionally plunging into debt. 💰
The average cost of attending college ranges between $13,960 to $56,190. But as long as you fill out your financial aid application, there are multiple ways to afford college:
- Attend tuition-free colleges. There are plenty of colleges where your tuition costs are fully covered. Typically, you’ll either have to work on campus, be a state resident, or come from a household of a certain income level.
- Enroll in a work-study program. Just like its name, you work part-time while attending college. Apply for this when you fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for targeted scholarships and grants. Narrow down your search to find those with specific offers for first-generation college students.
- Find fast food jobs that pay for college. Working for huge corporations can come with perks, such as college tuition assistance.
READ MORE: How to Go to College for Free (Or Ultra-Cheap!): 9 Effective Ways
You can mix and match these, too. Approach your campus financial aid counselors to understand your options and assist you in your applications. ✅
How to Take Care of Mental and Physical Health
Wanting to go the extra mile in academics, work, and every opportunity you can get ahold of is a common thing to do, but it’s also a ticket toward getting burnt out. 😞
Take charge of your schedule so you’ll have enough sleep and make time for exercise, where you can work out in your college gym or make it a point to walk across campus grounds between classes. You can also cook cheap yet healthy meals in your dorm to stay fit. 💪
Saying no to things outside your priority is perfectly fine to avoid taking on too many commitments that sacrifice your health. Don’t hesitate to seek free campus counseling services and take regular breaks to breathe and relax when things become overwhelming, too.
Helpful Resources for First-Generation College Students
Whether you’re waiting for college application results or already starting your journey, these nonprofit organizations provide mentorship, career development, and support systems for first-generation college students:
- America Needs You (ANY): Provides career preparation and mentorship from professional volunteers
- Collective Success Network: Also a volunteer-run organization with mentorship programs on navigating college, career guidance, and graduate school preparation
- Rise First: A one-stop shop for first-generation college student support resources
If you’re feeling alone, find comfort in these real-life stories from first-generation college students:
- Living a double life by Linda Banks-Santilli
- What I Remember About Orientation as a Low-Income, First-Generation Student by Andrew Martinez
- Your school newspaper may also have sections for these kinds of stories, like at Boston University and Indiana University Indianapolis
Your campus may also have dedicated departments, offices, and clubs for first-generation college students. Check the school website to learn what on-campus resources are available to you. 👍
Mastering how to balance first-generation college student responsibilities takes time and patience. But you’re not alone in your unique journey. It won’t be easy at first, but seeking your community of friends or mentors and setting boundaries are good places to start that can get you far. ✨
Common Struggles of First-Generation College Students (And How to Overcome Them): Frequently Asked Questions
What is a first-generation college student?
A first-generation college student is someone whose parents did not obtain a bachelor’s degree, making them the first in their immediate family to attend a college or university.
Do first-generation college students have financial assistance?
Yes, many colleges offer scholarships specifically for first-generation students. Additionally, there are federal grants, work-study programs, and private scholarships available.
What are common problems for first-generation college students?
Common challenges include financial stress, lack of family guidance, imposter syndrome, and balancing academic, financial, and familial responsibilities.
Can you give examples of the best techniques for balancing responsibilities as a first-generation college student?
- Create a structured study schedule and prioritize tasks.
- Seek mentorship and join first-gen student groups for guidance.
- Work part-time through work-study programs or internships.
- Practice self-care. Set boundaries and utilize campus support services.