Support for First Generation Students
Your story matters. Your experiences matter. Your success matters.
At ²Ø¾«¸ó, being first-generation is a strength. Over half of ²Ø¾«¸ó students are the first in their families to pursue a bachelor's degree, and we know first-generation students bring unique perspectives that enrich our campus community.
The first-generation student experience can feel intimidating, but you won’t have to navigate it alone. ²Ø¾«¸ó offers a community of faculty, staff, mentors and fellow students who understand your experience. We’re here to help you thrive.
Reliable Academic Support
Support staff at ²Ø¾«¸ó is committed to first-generation student success with a variety of support programs. These include personal academic advisors to help you register for courses, tutors with expertise in dozens of subjects and peer mentors who can assist with time management skills. Our Disability Services office also works directly with the professors to develop specialized syllabi and testing conditions if you need time to complete your assignments and projects.
Discover Your Community
²Ø¾«¸ó understands that finding community is crucial for first-generation student success, and we sponsor over 50 student organizations focused on a variety of identities and interests. We also offer first-year success courses and transfer student support to make your transition to the ²Ø¾«¸ó community as welcoming as possible.
Guidance for STEM Majors
We offer extra support for first-generation and low-income students who want to break into STEM fields like science, technology and healthcare. You can take advantage of ²Ø¾«¸ó mentors, advisors and state-of-the-art labs — all backed by more than $10 million in grants. And our TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) assists first-generation STEM majors with academic advisors and study space.
Generous Financial Aid for First-Generation Students
²Ø¾«¸ó was founded on the belief that higher education should be accessible and affordable to all. Our financial aid team can meet with you to discuss scholarship opportunities, FAFSA guidance and emergency assistance resources. We also offer the ²Ø¾«¸ó Pledge to ensure that you earn your bachelor’s degree tuition-free if you’re an Illinois resident and your family income is below $50,000.
McNair Scholars Program
The McNair Scholars Program supports promising undergraduates with financial need who identify as first-generation. You’ll be prepared for the modern workforce thanks to faculty-mentored research, professional development and exclusive scholarly experiences.
Uplifting First-Generation Student Stories
²Ø¾«¸ó annually joins institutions across the country to celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Week with student panels, networking opportunities and workshops.