First-Generation Student Resources

Defining First-Generation Students

First-generation students are often defined as those whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year degree. First-generation graduate and professional students are former first-generation undergraduates who are pursuing an advance degree. However, at UMB we understand that there are varied definitions of what it means to be first-generation. 

If this identity resonates with you, we invite you to review our resources and participate in our upcoming programs and events!

 

Resources

University Resources ▾

University-Wide

Intercultural Center | https://www.umaryland.edu/ile/intercultural-center/ 

The Intercultural Center develops spaces of belonging for historically marginalized students, including those who are first-generation. The Center also develops anti-racism and anti-oppression educational opportunities for all UMB students, staff, and faculty. 

Office of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs | https://www.umaryland.edu/umb-student-affairs/ 

The Office of the Associate Vice President of Student Affairs is committed to creating inclusive campus environments and welcomes opportunities to meet with students to support their academic, personal, and professional success.

Student Counseling Center | www.umaryland.edu/counseling

The Student Counseling Center (SCC) provides short-term professional counseling and psychiatric services for currently enrolled full-time and part-time UMB students. The SCC’s mission is to help promote and maintain the emotional well-being of UMB students and serve as a resource for the entire university community. For students who need immediate assistance, the UMB Crisis Support Line is available 24/7 and can be reached by dialing 410-328-8404 and pressing 7.

Academic Coaching | https://www.umaryland.edu/coaching/

Academic Coaching is a working partnership that focuses on the process of learning. Together with an academic coach, students examine their learning styles, habits of working, and current difficulties or barriers to success. This team (coach and student) works to create and put in place more effective strategies. The aim is to support students in their academic goals by providing strategies, a supportive relationship, and personal accountability.

Student Emergency Funds | https://www.umaryland.edu/umb-student-affairs/student-support/student-emergency-funds-/

Each of the seven schools at UMB have a student emergency fund to support students' needs during temporary financial hardship. Application requirements vary and depend on the school.

UMB Guidance Resources | https://www.umaryland.edu/hrs/benefits/guidance-resources/

The UMB Guidance Resources programs offers someone to talk to and resources to consult whenever and wherever you need them. You can connect to a Guidance Consultant on work/academic life solutions, legal guidance, and financial resources.

School-Specific

School of Social Work First-Generation Student Success Program | https://www.ssw.umaryland.edu/student-life/student-affairs/first-generation-student-success-program-fgsp/

The First-Generation Student Success Program (FGSP) was started in 2021 to create a community among first-generation students at the School of Social Work. The program offers a physical lounge space, advising sessions, workshops and more! 

External Resources ▾

These links are being provided as a convenience and for informational purposes only; they do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by the University of Maryland, Baltimore of any of the products, services, or opinions of the corporation or organization. The University of Maryland, Baltimore bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. Contact the external site for answers to questions regarding its content.  

Resources for Students

I’m First | https://imfirst.org/about/

A nonprofit that provides students who do not have a family history of higher education with inspiration, information, and support on the road to and through college.

Rise First | https://risefirst.org

Over 1,200 curated resources to enable first-generation, low-income success.

How to Build Your Network as a First-Generation Student | https://hbr.org/2022/02/how-to-build-your-network-as-a-first-generation-student 

An article that provides four specific strategies on how to build your network as a first-generation student. 

Resources for Faculty and Staff 

Center for First-Generation Student Success | https://firstgen.naspa.org/

The premier source of evidence-based practices, professional development, and knowledge creation for the higher education community to advance the success of first-generation students.

Supporting First-Generation Students | https://www.insidehighered.com/views/2019/04/11/policies-and-practices-help-first-generation-college-students-succeed-opinion 

An article from Inside Higher Ed that can inform faculty and administrators on how to best support first-generation students.

Teaching the Hidden Curriculum | https://www.bu.edu/teaching-writing/resources/teaching-the-hidden-curriculum/ 

Inclusive teaching guides and tips that unpacks the hidden curriculum and provides tools for incorporating equity into the classroom.

First-Generation Student Interest Form

If you are interested in participating in upcoming First-Generation Community Building Circles and to be kept up-to-date about other events and opportunities for first-generation students throughout the academic year, please complete our interest form.

Sign Up Here

First-Gen Forward

In March 2022, the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and The Suder Foundation, announced the 2022-23 First-gen Forward cohort. The First-gen Forward designation recognizes institutions of higher education who have demonstrated a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. Selected institutions receive professional development, community-building experiences, and a first look at the Center’s research and resources. The University of Maryland School of Social Work (SSW) and UMB Student Affairs’ Intercultural Center are thrilled to have received this designation on behalf of the University of Maryland, Baltimore. 

Upcoming Intercultural Center Events