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 — taking college classes and earning 6 credits at no cost. Participate in workshops to understand resources on campus and have social and cultural experiences to connect with peers and staff. Space is limited.

FALL 2019 EVENTS

Graduate School Application Process Presentation

When: Tuesday October 22, 2019

Time: 12:10 - 1:00pm

Location: 1294 Room (Shults)

Celebrate First-Gen Student Day

What: We will recognize and celebrate the successes of Nazareth's first-generation faculty, staff and students. All students, faculty, staff and families of first-gen students are invited to attend.

When: Friday November 8, 2019

Time: 2:30-4:00pm

Location: Glazer Music Performance Center Lobby

FAFSA Renewal Workshop

What: Meet with professionals from Financial Aid to renew your FAFSA and TAP applications

When: Thursday November 14, 2019

Time: 12:10-1:00pm

Location: Library 122

FAFSA Renewal Workshop

When: Friday November 22, 2019

Time: 2:30-3:30pm

Location: Library 122

First to Fly logo

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 >