A Community Where You Can Thrive
“[We] are dedicated to creating pathways and support systems that elevate the experiences and outcomes of our first-generation students."
- Todd Manuel, Vice President, Division of Engagement, Civil Rights & Title IX
LSU is a proud member of the FirstGen Forward Network. A national model inspired to successfully engage and positively impact the college experience of first-generation students. Under this model, LSU offers social and academic resources to assist students, and their families, navigating the higher education landscape for the first time.
We encourage you to use our request additional information option for any additional inquiries, or if you would like to engage with a member of the FirstGen Forward Team directly.
Student Resources
FirstGen Celebration Week is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the unique experiences of first-generation students, faculty, and staff. As a cornerstone of LSU’s commitment to first-generation success, this week fosters community, while providing informative resources an insightful conversations across the broader LSU community.
Join us in November 2024 as we celebrate the powerful and valuable first-generation contributions to our university’s vibrant culture.
LSU offers several support programs to engage and impact the undergraduate experience of first-generation students. The First Gen Mentor Program, offered by the Olinde Career Center, matches first-generation students to first-generation professionals. Applications for 2024-2025 open on November 1st.
LSU also provides three of the Federal TRiO Programs, Upward Bound, Student Support Services, and the Ronald E. McNair Research Scholars Program. All three programs strengthen the collegial pathway of first-generation students by providing academic, financial and community resources.
LSU offers several scholarships for First-Generation students. The best way to receive
direct assistance with financial aid and scholarships is to contact a member of the
LSU Financial Aid & Scholarships Office. Additionally, search LSU's Scholarship Database using keywords like "first-generation" or "first in family.”
Celebrate your accomplishments with a distinguished First-Generation Cord at graduation. In 2017, the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the Center for First-generation Student Success (now known as First Gen Forward under NASPA) launched the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration.
The logo was later redesigned to take into account the intersected identities of first-generation college students and the vast array of institutions, corporations, non-profits, and foundations engaging in celebrations.
Within the logo, sky blue was selected to signify: "Celebration, which depicts a graduation cap being tossed upward, which connects to the elevation of first-generation college students and their communities."
General
Q: How do I know if I'm a First-Generation student?
A: First-generation students are those whose parents/guardians did not complete a bachelor's degree. A first-generation student may also be a student whose parents/guardians completed a college degree outside of the United States.
Q: Am I still First-Generation if other members of my family (step-parents, siblings, grandparents) completed a bachelor's degree
A: Yes. Being First-Gen at LSU means your parents/guardians did not complete a bachelor's degree, regardless of another family member's level of education.
Q: How can my family support me as a First-Generation student?
A: Family members can provide immense support and even serve as great resources as you navigate your Tiger Journey. In addition to encouraging students to seek help when needed and recognizing the college experience is new and will present unique challenges for each student, LSU encourages family members to get involved in the following ways:
- Attend First-Gen Family orientation sessions
- Stay informed about LSU resources and events
Academic
Q: What First-Generation support services are available at LSU?
A: LSU provides the following support services for First-Gen students:
- Academic Advising for First-Gen Students
- Tutoring and Study Skills Workshops
- Financial Aid Counseling
- Career Development Resources
Q: How can I get involved in research as a First-Generation student?
A: LSU encourages undergraduate research. Speak with your academic advisor or professors about research opportunities in your field of study. The Office of Research & Economic Development and LSU Discover Program are great resources to assist in connecting you to research opportunities and projects.
Q: What if I'm struggling academically or feeling overwhelmed?
A: You are not alone. LSU provides various academic, social and emotional health support interventions. See a list of resources available to you below:
- Academic Counseling with your Academic Advisor (can be scheduled directly through Navigate)
- Student Success One Stop
- Center for Academic Success
- Mental Health Services through the Student Health Center
Q: Are there any study abroad opportunities for First-Generation students?
A: Yes, LSU's Academic Programs Abroad office offers various study abroad programs. They can provide information on scholarships and grants specifically for First-Generation students interested in studying abroad.
Social
Q: Are there any special orientation programs for First-Generation students and families?
A: Yes, LSU typically offers orientation sessions specifically designed for First-Gen students and their families. These sessions provide additional information on navigating college life and available resources.
Q: How can I connect with other First-Generation students at LSU?
A: Join the First-Generation Student Organization, attend First-Gen events, and participate in mentorship programs. The First-Generation Student Services office can also help connect you with peer groups.
Remember, LSU is committed to supporting its First-Generation students. Don't hesitate to contact the First-Generation Student Services office for more information or assistance with any questions you may have.
Faculty & Staff Resources
This course offers insights on engaging faculty and staff in fostering first-generation student success. Topics covered include recommendations that can be used when onboarding staff.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand characteristics of first-generation students.
- Examine research findings regarding faculty and first-generation students.
- Implement best practices for faculty interactions within the classroom setting.
- Explore ways in which faculty and staff can actively contribute to first-generation campus initiatives.
- Learn how to effectively motivate and encourage faculty and staff participation with first-gen efforts.
The Center for First-generation Student Success is proud to have partnered with Dr. Russ Smith, Director of First-Generation Support and Engagement at Hofstra University, and Dr. Don Saucier, University Distinguished Teaching Scholar at Kansas State University, to make this module possible.
The FirstGen Forward Team welcomes your support. If you would like to add an event to the FirstGen calendar or learn more about how you can collaborate on a first-generation initiative, you are encouraged to use the form below.
Events & Engagements
