If going to college can be intimidating for many people, then going as a first-generation student can be downright daunting. Whether or not your parents are still with you, there’s no personal experience they have to advise you. And this can add to any anxiety you may already be feeling.
This article will cover a multitude of things that first-generation students need to know about going to college. From how to choose what institution you’ll attend to how to fit in during your first few months attending, you can find help here.
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Know That You’re Brave
First things first: you’re brave. Read those words out loud to yourself and let them sink in for a moment. Whatever your reason, you’ve made the decision to take a step into the unknown and invest in your future. It’s a bold move, and it takes courage to do so. Give yourself the appropriate pat on the back. Yes, it is hard, and yes, you can do it. Be proud of yourself for taking charge of your own journey.
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Preparation Leads to Success
As you go through the college selection process, it’s important to keep your “why” at the forefront of your mind. Perhaps you want to pursue a Ph.D. in physics or you want to get your associate’s degree in social work. Once you decide on your why, you’ll have to find a college that can help make your dreams a reality.
The best way to find the right fit is to go and try them on. Schedule tours at multiple colleges. Then, create a college tour checklist before you visit to help decipher whether that institution’s offerings align with your why. Most colleges have a wealth of information online, but you’ll never really know what they’re like until you actually go there.
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Cast A Wide Net
Now that you’ve visited a few schools and made a list of where you’d like to apply, double it. Then maybe triple it for good measure. More Americans are going to college than ever before and spaces are increasingly limited. While, of course, the most desirable outcome would be to go to the institution of your choosing, there’s no guarantee.
Experts suggest you apply for five to eight institutions, which should include “safety,” “match,” and “reach” colleges. A safety match is a school that you meet all the criteria to attend, and you should be a shoo-in. A match means that your transcript is about the same as an average freshman’s, and a stretch is one where it’s likely you wouldn’t be accepted. It’s partially a numbers game: the more places you apply, the higher the chance one of them will accept you.
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Fire and Forget
Time has passed, you’ve submitted your applications, and acceptance and rejection letters are coming back in the mail. Now you’re faced with the biggest decision you’ll make during this whole process: where do you actually want to go? If you get accepted by two or more desirable institutions, you may find yourself at a significant crossroads.
But remember: when it comes down to it, you’ll grow no matter where you go. Reach out for advice, weigh your options, make a choice, and commit to it knowing you’re investing in your future.
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Seek Advice
At the end of the day, you’re just one person, and having other people you trust is invaluable. While you might not have family members who have gone to college to ask for help, that doesn’t mean you’re alone. Reach out to a teacher, your school guidance counselor, your manager at work, or another trusted community figure.
Eventually, you’ll be able to find someone who can support you through your journey with their experience. Asking for advice can provide an outside perspective that might help you realize what kind of college is best for you.
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Find a Mentor
Seeking guidance is not something limited to isolated moments of need like school applications. Having a mentor to help guide you can be invaluable throughout your college career and beyond. A mentor can be someone you meet in college, like a faculty member who you’re actively studying under. But they could be alumni, an elder peer, or even staff with whom you share some affinity. The most important aspect of mentorship is having a clear purpose, so your mentor can help you develop.
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Remember It’s Okay to Have Fun
You may feel a lot of pressure since you’re the first one in your family going to college. However, that shouldn’t be your only focus. The college experience is about more than just academics — it’s also a time of great personal growth. Take advantage of the amazing, spontaneous opportunities that will inevitably surprise you. They can be just as educational as your classes.
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Make Friends Along the Way
The connections you make in college are another invaluable part of the experience. In fact, you might find you learn as much from your peers as you do from your professors. Colleges can be an incredible melting pot of people from all walks of life with experiences to share.
You’ll likely even meet other first-generation college students. You may find comrades in your experience. You can help each other during difficult times and celebrate the good ones. Just like your choice of institution, your choice of friends can change the trajectory of your life.
Believe In Yourself
When considering college, you’ll have to make a lot of decisions along the way. Even though you’re a first-generation college student, you don’t have to go it alone. There are many people out there who will be willing to help you if you ask them. You’re taking a big step into your future, so be proud of yourself.