first generation students – You've Been Engaged

by Brittany Abraham (babraham@gwu.edu)

"I'm proud to be first gen-because: I'm carving the path for my sisters to attend college as well."

First-generation students are an incredible asset to our community. The George Washington University (or any other university for that matter) would not be as dynamic, diverse, or resilient without them. First-generation students bring a unique perspective and unmatched strength to campus. First-generation students attend the same classes as traditional students, live in the same residence halls, are perhaps in the same clubs or internships, study in similar places, but the first-generation experience is admittedly a bit different than their peers. ...continue reading "Celebrating First-Generation Students Today and Every Day"

by Bridgette Behling (bbehling@gwu.edu)

The Center for Student Engagement (CSE) is committed to transforming the student experience and empowering students through leadership, advising and community building. After testing a few pilot programs to support first-generation students in the 2015-2016 year, staff in GW’s Center for Student Engagement launched a portfolio of programs for first-gen students in the 2016-2017 academic year. GW’s definition for first-generation students is aligned with the Common Application definition: an individual neither of whose parents completed a bachelor’s degree. Staff in the CSE support first-generation student success and believe there are simple measures that can be taken to provide this population with support that will positively impact their retention and make a difference in their student experience. ...continue reading "Programs for First-Generation Students at GW"