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First Generation Student Engagement
Our Mission
Welcome to the Office of First Generation Student Engagement at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ. Our office is dedicated to supporting first-generation undergraduate students with tailored resources, guidance, and community-building opportunities. We empower students to thrive academically, socially, and personally through advocacy, engagement, and belonging.
First Generation College Celebration
Each year on November 8th, we honor the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded college opportunities for low-income and first-generation students. Join us during this week as we celebrate the accomplishments of first-generation students at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ with a variety of engaging activities.
Griffin Mentorship Program
Our First-Gen Griffin Mentorship Program pairs first-generation students with faculty and staff during their freshman and sophomore years to help them transition and navigate college life at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ. Using the One-Network platform, students achieve pre-determined milestones to ensure their success. In their junior and senior years, students are matched with alumni in their chosen fields, gaining professional insights and networking skills. After graduation, these students are equipped to serve as alumni mentors for the next generation of first-gen students.
First-Gen Fellows
Our First Gen Fellows Program empowers first-generation students to become leaders within our community. Fellows actively engage with our office and attend events throughout the year, offering support to incoming first-year first-gen students at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ. Selected fellows receive a mini-grant to participate in experiential learning, integrative practices, student engagement activities, or professional development during their fellowship year. This program fosters mentorship, leadership, and community building among our first-generation student population.
Vanguard Celebration
The Vanguard Cording Ceremony is Â鶹Æƽâ°æ’s pre-commencement celebration honoring the achievements of first-generation and limited-income (FGLI) graduating students.
First Generation Student Engagement | Â鶹Æƽâ°æ
Explore the vibrant community and extensive resources available to support first-generation students at Â鶹Æƽâ°æ. From tailored guidance to community-building opportunities, the university is dedicated to ensuring our first-generations students thrive academically, socially and personally.
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First Generation Student Engagement
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- Email: firstgen@wm.edu