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Did you know that approximately 25% of UMass students are among the first in their family to go to college? If you are the first in your own family, you're joining the many students, faculty, and staff on campus who are first-generation.
Student Success is here for you on your first-gen UMass journey. Check out our resource page for events, recommended resources, and ideas for how to connect. Reach out to us if you have any questions about campus life or your academics. Stay connected to us via Instagram for updates!
Undergraduate Student Success and the First-Generation Experience at UMass
Undergraduate Student Success is committed to supporting and celebrating the first-generation student population at UMass Amherst. An important part of our community’s history, first-generation students are defined here as those who do not have a parent or guardian who attained a four-year degree. First-gen students come to our campus with a wealth of important perspectives, life experiences, and skills. We encourage students to embrace their ability to achieve their goals as they make connections and develop a sense of belonging on campus.
Our unit offers programming, services, and resources designed to cultivate academic and co-curricular success. Support for first-generation students is a shared mission across our campus and we collaborate extensively with the academic colleges and departments as well as Student Affairs & Campus Life. We continue to grow and improve our initiatives, collaborating with students on campus and utilizing success data to drive meaningful, planful action.
Additionally, we are glad to share that UMass Amherst has recently been designated as a First-gen Forward institution by NASPA's Center for First-Generation Student Success. We are grateful for the many students, staff, and faculty who have lead, coordinated, and facilitated the initiatives that have earned us this recognition.
Want to learn more about the nationwide movement to support first-generation college student success? Here are some helpful resources:
"I, myself, identify as a first-generation student, and I really feel it's important to provide community and connect with other students.” — Professor and Dean of the Commonwealth Honors College Mari Castañeda
