How to Overcome Challenges as a First Generation Student

Experts estimate that as many as 50% of current college and university students in the United States are first-generation attendees. Meaning, they are the first ones in their direct family to attend college. This is a huge achievement that creates a lot of pride for the students and their families.

On the other hand, first-generation students face challenges as well. These obstacles encompass everything from the concrete financial challenges of paying for school, to mental health challenges stemming from feelings of guilt, shame, and anxiety. If not addressed, the hurdles first-gen students face can lead them to drop out of college or develop larger mental health and financial problems. 

Thankfully, tools are available to these pioneering students to help them overcome the very real challenges unique to their situations, including scholarships for low-income students, first-gen support groups, and more. If you’re a first-generation college student, we have collected these suggestions to find financial, academic, and mental health assistance while you pursue your educational goals. 

One of the biggest challenges facing a first-generation college student is the high cost of attending university. Students whose parents didn’t attend college might not have a college fund waiting for them. Their parents might not have high enough incomes to help them manage the cost of college. 

Scholarships for low-income students can help bridge this gap. Start by talking with your high school guidance counselor to identify scholarships for low-income students that might fit your needs. Apply early and target a range of financial aid granters. 

First-generation students can also find scholarship opportunities targeted to them that are not necessarily based on income. 

Another challenge for some "first-gen" students is finding their academic footing in college. They might not come into their freshman year with as much college prep or tutoring as students whose parents went to college. First-gen students sometimes report having less academic confidence than their peers. 

Navigating the academic system can also be a challenge. This vast bureaucracy is daunting, and first-generation college students often don’t have a close relative or friend to help guide them through. 

First-gen students should seek out mentors and communities that specialize in supporting them throughout their academic careers. Some universities have created first-gen organizations. Another option is to work with an academic advisor at your school. Find and connect with other first-gen students on campus to build your support network to help each other succeed. 

Mental health challenges can have a huge impact on first-generation students. Many report feelings of guilt and family conflicts, stemming from fear of rejecting their past or having opportunities others did not. 

Others worry they don’t fit in with their peers and might feel shame around their and their family’s struggles. 

It’s important to address these feelings and anxieties with a mental health professional. Check-in with the university health center, which can help you identify on or off-campus mental health support. Make time to care for yourself, through activities like meditation, yoga, and hobbies. Building relationships on campus with like-minded peers is another way to boost mental health and get the most out of your college experience.