I Will Not Give Up: Higher Education for the First Generation College Student

Jennifer Godoy, Undergraduate Academic Success Center

Dorian Escamila, Graduate Student, Undergraduate Academic Success Center

Elvia Flores, Graduate Student, Undergraduate Academic Success Center

The enrollment of first-generation college students (FG) is rapidly increasing at APU—more than 20 percent of the undergraduate population identify as FG. APU strives to establish a climate that scaffolds success for all students, especially those from diverse populations, and there is an urgent need to serve students from an asset-oriented approach rather than a deficit framework. It is important to consider the characteristics, experiences, and commitments each student brings to college, especially those who are first-generation and participants of TRiO Student Support Services. This session includes an overview of TRiO SSS, a panel of current undergraduate FGs who serve as ambassadors, and strategies our campus community can utilize to better support FGs on campus. This session also addresses high-impact practices that increase a sense of belonging, encourage noncognitive development, and strengthen self-efficacy for first-generation students.