First-Generation Students
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. At Nazareth, about one in 10 undergraduate students is first-generation. We look forward to supporting you throughout your college journey!
"Everyone really is here to help you."
Two students working to be the first in their family to complete a bachelor's degree say that Nazareth College provides great professors, intellectual challenge, a home away from home, a feeling of community, experiences abroad, a participation-driven culture, and inspiration and knowledge to make a difference in other people's lives.
As part of celebrating First-Generation Day at Nazareth, Tonya Guzman, director of Student Access and Achievement at Nazareth, interviewed Mariam Kamate and Ivy Dulysz, each in the room where they had their first college class — a time of "excitement and wonder," as Ivy put it.
Among their advice: Go after opportunities. Watch the video, above.
“Your voice can make a change"
Student experience: College has been more than Arlene Lopez expected and has given her strong connections, including friendships with students and mentoring by staff and faculty.
"Embrace the uncomfortable"
Student experience: Joycelyn Rivas, majored 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, including through a first-gen mentoring program. Read their First-gen Stories >
Fall 2022 Events
Celebrate First Gen Day: November 10, 2022, noon - 1 p.m., Shults Reading Lounge
Recognized as a leader in first-gen education
The 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.
10%
of Nazareth undergraduates are first-generation college students (2023)