Finding your people – the ones you really vibe with – is one of the best things about college.
Campus Pulse is a fantastic way to discover student organizations across campus and upcoming events. Read on below to learn about first-gen specific communities and networking opportunities.
CMASS (Center for Multicultural Advancement and Student Success)
The Center for Multicultural Advancement and Student Success (CMASS) opened its doors in 2011 to support the student success and sense of belonging of first-generation, students of color, multiracial students, and low-income students. They are the home operating base of UMass Cultural Centers, Each One Reach Mentoring Program for aspiring graduate students, Success Coaching, and so much more.
Whether you are looking for social engagement, guidance in navigating the university, cultural connections, or feedback on your plans for success, CMASS is here for you.
Learn about their many programs, support services, community spaces, and upcoming events on their website and sign up to receive their weekly bulletin here.
FLiP (UMass First Generation Low-Income Student Partnership)
FLiP is a student-run organization focused on creating and maintaining a space and community dedicated to first-generation and low-income college students. Members of FLiP strive to support each other to succeed in all aspects of life – academically, socially, financially, and emotionally. Additionally, they seek to help each other embrace and be proud of our identities as first-generation low-income college students, and to raise awareness of the positive impact that first-generation low-income college students have on the UMass campus. Interested in joining? Have further questions? Email FLiP at umassflip@gmail.com.
Connect UMass First-Generation Students and Alumni Group
The Connect UMass First-Generation Students and Alumni Group is a virtual space for networking – a fun, safe, supportive, and resource-rich community where students can connect not just with each other but with UMass alumni who also identify as first-gen. Here, you can take part in mentorship, find job opportunities, learn about upcoming events, and so much more. Not only is this an amazing opportunity to build networking skills – it’s also a networking platform with the capacity to yield real-world results for future first-gen graduates.
Start building your network now by creating an account on Connect UMass. Once your profile is approved, search for the first-gen group and start connecting!
Watch the video below to learn more.
