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.

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 >