Student Access and Achievement Programs

First-Generation Student Initiatives

What's first gen? At Nazareth College, a student is identified as a first-generation college student if neither parent/guardian earned a bachelor's degree. If this is you, congratulations! Being the first member of your family to attend college is a big accomplishment and an exciting challenge.

You are not alone. There are currently 290+ reported first-generation college students on campus, which is 14% of the undergraduate student body and we look forward to supporting you throughout your college journey!

Our initiatives seek to:

  • Provide workshops and individual support to help you navigate college
  • Create a community and sense of pride about being first-gen
  • Connect you to appropriate resources on campus
  • Increase awareness of first-gen students on campus, and recognize your strengths
  • Create a campus-wide initiative to support and celebrate first-gen students

Summer Start

First-year first-gen students have the opportunity to attend Summer Start — Participate in workshops to understand resources on campus and have social and cultural experiences to connect with peers and staff. Space is limited.

First to Fly logo
Logo badge: First-Gen Forward Institution

Recognized as a leader in first-gen education

The national Center for First-generation Student Success honored Nazareth in 2020 for demonstrating a commitment to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students.

14%

of Nazareth undergraduates are first-generation college students

Joycelyn Rivas

Appreciating Support

Read about first-generation college student Joycelyn Rivas '20, who's majoring in psychology with a minor in neuropsychology >

Surrounded by Support

Nazareth staff and faculty — including some who are first-gen college grads themselves — are glad to be resources. Read their First-gen Stories >