3 answers
Madelyn
Student
Baltimore, Maryland
1
Question
Asked
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What is one piece of advice for a first generation college student?
I am going to be a freshman next fall, and neither of my parents when to college. I feel like I don't really know what to expect next year, and I want to start of the fall semester on a good note.
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3 answers
Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Consultant and Freelance Writer, TRIO Program Administrator
1009
Answers
Tacoma, Washington
Updated
Paul’s Answer
As a TRIO director, I worked extensively with First Generation Students, and I always gave them the following advice:
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a college major or even a future occupation in life.
Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway.
American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
I have a basic formula, when it comes to determining a college major or even a future occupation in life.
Choose something that you love to do, not just a passion, but really love. It must be something that you love so much, that even if they did not pay you to do it, you would still do it anyway.
American historian, David McCullough, said it even more clearly. He stated that he loved writing about history so much, that he would have paid someone, so that he could do it every day. His love of his major and occupation was this great.
Kelsey Mokarzel
Server
8
Answers
Austin, Texas
Updated
Kelsey’s Answer
Hello Madelyn!
Congrats on your acceptance! One piece of advice is to be proactive and ask questions. Don't be afraid to reach out to your professors, advisors, or classmates for help. They've all been in your shoes before, and most are happy to support you. Also, take advantage of campus resources like academic support centers, tutoring, and student organizations to build your network and find your community. You got this! (You can also request to get a different advisor if you do not like the one they place you with.)
Congrats on your acceptance! One piece of advice is to be proactive and ask questions. Don't be afraid to reach out to your professors, advisors, or classmates for help. They've all been in your shoes before, and most are happy to support you. Also, take advantage of campus resources like academic support centers, tutoring, and student organizations to build your network and find your community. You got this! (You can also request to get a different advisor if you do not like the one they place you with.)
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Madelyn. One of the most important pieces of advice is to use the resources your college offers. Many first-generation students feel like they have to figure everything out alone, but colleges have lots of support services to help you succeed. This includes academic advisors, tutoring centers, counseling, study groups, and workshops on time management or study skills.
Another important tip is to build a support network on campus, surround yourself with friends, classmates, professors, or student groups who understand the college experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for help, professors, teaching assistants, and classmates are usually happy to support you. Learning to ask for help is a skill that will help you in college and in life. All the best to you.
Another important tip is to build a support network on campus, surround yourself with friends, classmates, professors, or student groups who understand the college experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for help, professors, teaching assistants, and classmates are usually happy to support you. Learning to ask for help is a skill that will help you in college and in life. All the best to you.