Five Tips for First-Generation College Students

Being the first person in your family to attend college is a big accomplishment. It can also mean entering a new environment with either a lot of questions or not knowing which questions to even ask.

I know because I was a first-generation college student myself.

There were things about college that I simply didn't know yet. Who should I ask for help? What resources were available to me? Sometimes, I even made assumptions. I assumed that everyone else was already familiar with how college worked and that I was super behind.

If you have asked yourself some of those same questions or made these assumptions, you are not alone. Part of your college experience is learning how to navigate this new chapter. Here are five things I encourage first-generation students to keep in mind along the way.

1. Ask Questions

Do you know where to go if you have a question about a class? Financial aid? Registration? Your degree plan? Do you even know which questions you should be asking?

If the answer is no that is okay.

College comes with new terminology, expectations and processes. You are not expected to arrive knowing everything. Ask your professor's questions. Talk to your advisor. Introduce yourself to staff members. Find the people who can point you in the right direction.

Your questions matter and asking them can help you become more confident in navigating college.

2. Find People Who Will Walk Alongside You

Think about the people who have helped you get to this point. Who encouraged you? Who answered your questions? Who reminded you to keep going?

Continue building that community in college.

At Concordia University Texas, one way first-generation students can do that is through the Tornado Trailblazers Program. The program helps eligible students build connections with peers and staff while learning more about academic planning, financial literacy, student involvement, mental health, and other campus resources.

College is your journey, but it does not have to be one you take alone.

3. Use Academic Resources Before You Think You Need Them

Have you ever waited to ask for help because you thought you should be able to figure something out on your own?

I know many of us have.

One of the lessons college teaches us is that asking for and using support is part of learning. Concordia Texas students have access to academic resources through the Zielke Academic Support Center, including tutoring and support in areas such as writing, math and speaking.

These resources are not only for moments when you are struggling. Use them to prepare, improve and become a stronger student.

4. Take Care of Yourself

You are more than your assignments, exams, and grades.

College can bring exciting opportunities, but it can also bring stress, uncertainty, homesickness and pressure. When you need someone to talk to, reach out.

Concordia Texas offers counseling services and pastoral care to support students through personal, academic and emotional challenges.

Taking care of your physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual help allows you to be more present for your classes, your relationships and the opportunities around you.

5. Remember the Importance of Your Journey

There may be moments when college feels difficult. In those moments, think about why you started.

As a first-generation college student, you are doing something that may be new for your family. You are creating opportunities for yourself while also showing others what is possible.

You will not have every answer on your first day, your first semester, or even your first year. Your why may even change throughout your journey.

Keep asking questions. Find people you trust. Use the resources available to you. And give yourself room to learn along the way.

Your experience matters, your voice matters, and you belong in the Concordia Texas community.