Starting college as a first-generation college student can feel like stepping into a completely new world. its both exciting yet overwhelming at the same time. You wouldn’t be able to figure what to expect out of this new phase of your life. Sometimes you might even feel pressure as you are going to pave the way for your family. This pressure might feel heavy which can even leave you unsure about how to handle the challenges ahead. But you are not alone as there are thousands of students who have to face the same hurdles and thrived. With the right guidance, you can survive this phase too. Here are some of the tips that would help you to make most out of your college experience.
1- Introduce yourself
One of the things college students need when they enter into college is to make some friends so that they can enhance their college experience. This is why it is important to start with a short intro session. It helps your teachers and fellows to know you better and be there as your friend. Not only this but it also helps you to expand your social and professional circle. Apart from that it also helps you to get a sense of belonging to the college community. Make sure to keep this intro short and sweet. When you start introduction, make sure to maintain an eye contact and warm smile on your face.
2- Ask questions
The next thing that you need to keep in mind is that it is okay to not have all the answers. However, your college mist be packed with jargon and processes which can be confusing. You would come across different processes such as financial aid forms to course registration and its okay if you are not familiar to everything. You can always ask questions to your classmates and teachers whenever you want. Not only this, but colleges sometimes have support centers which are there to help first-generation students.
3- Time management is key
When you don’t have a plan, your college life can instantly give you an overwhelming feeling. This is why it is important to learn time management skills. This is the next tip for first generation college student to make the most out of their college life. There are different events and tasks that you have manage such as classes, assignments, exams and even sometimes a part-time job as well. You can start to use a planner or a digital calendar which helps you to keep track of deadlines and commitments. However, you also have to break large tasks into smaller so that you can manage them easily.
4- Build relationships
Networking is one of the powerful tool for your college life. So, you need to step forward and attend events, join clubs and even engage with professors. This doesn’t just help you to feel confident but it also open doors to internships, mentorships and even job opportunities. However, building relationships in your campus is such a powerful tool for success.
5- Use campus resources
The next up useful things college students need is to utilise their college resources. There are most of the colleges that offers different resources to students for their academic success. You can take up career couseling to tutoring services to mental health support as well. However, a large chunk of students don’t even acknowledge this support from their college. So, make sure to explore facilities that you college offers.
6- Don’t be afraid to fail
College is a challenging journey and you are supposed to hit roadblocks along the way. Whether it is a tough class, bad grade or missed opportunity, your failure is not going to define you. instead, you have to take this as an opportunity to learn and grow in your journey. Reflect on what went wrong, adjust your approach and keep moving forward.
7- Celebrate your wins
When you are a first generation college student every step that you take is a victory, not just for you but for your family and community as well. You have to celebrate every achievement, whether it passing a difficult class, joining a club or simply passing a semester. So, what you can do is to jot down three things that you are proud of achieving in the past month.
Being a first generation college student has its own set of challenges but it is what makes your journey more special. You are going to break barriers, create opportunities and prove that hard work pays off. You can implement these tips and make most out of your college phase.
Faqs
What makes a first generation college student?
Ans- a first generation college student is someone whose parents haven’t attended college. These students have to go through different challenges such as tackling tough academic situations and even lacking family guidance etc. these students are driven by aspirations and determination.
What motivates first generation college students?
Ans- first generation are motivated by a desire to improve their socio-economic status, create better opportunities for themselves and even for their families and prove their capabilities. They are even driven by resilience, determination and a strong work ethic.
What are first generation learners?
Ans- first generation learners are students to pursue graduation level of education and they often face different challenges such as limited access to resources, lack of family guidance and balancing academic responsibilities.
What is the opposite of a first generation college student?
Ans- the opposite of a first generation learners would be students whose parents or guardians have attended college. These students likely to have family guidance support, familiarity with academic environment and potential access to resources and networks as well.