Arcadia University (Image courtesy of Christopher Weekly)
Applying to college can be an exciting, yet challenging process, especially for first-generation students who may not have family members familiar with the journey. To support these students, Arcadia University has shared valuable tips to help them navigate applications, financial aid, and campus resources with confidence.
The local college is offering guidance on key steps like writing personal statements, securing scholarships, and understanding college life.
Dr. Donavan McCargo, Vice President for Campus Life and Dean of Students at Arcadia University, knows firsthand the challenges of applying to and succeeding in college as a first-generation student. More than one out of five students at Arcadia – and many faculty and staff, including "Dr. Don" – are among the first generation in their families to earn a four-year college degree.
Here are Dr. McCargo's tips for first-generation students during their college search:
1. Seek out programs or organizations specifically for first-gen students
For example, Arcadia is among the schools with a chapter of Tri-Alpha, a national honors society for first-generation college students.
2. Ask questions about academic and community support
Look for a welcoming community and an assortment of people and places you can turn to to help you thrive in and out of the classroom.
3. Meet with and establish a relationship with a financial aid counselor
FAFSA? Subsidized vs. unsubsidized? They can explain it all. If you don't understand, keep asking questions!
4. Attend a summer bridge program
Research suggests that an early start to the rigors of college provided by Arcadia's Gateway Summer Bridge Program and others like it has lasting benefits for first-gen students.
5. Consider the vibrancy of campus life
Look for a community that fosters connections and fuels passions in fun, exciting, and supportive ways.
6. Ask about student employment opportunities
The earlier a first-gen student lands a position that captures their passions, the quicker they start building a sense of belonging. Arcadia's Office of Career Education has an online community specifically for first-gen students.
7. Ask about student outcomes
How successful are alumni following graduation? 95% of Arcadia's undergraduate class of 2023 secured professional opportunities within nine months of graduation. The University was recognized by U.S. News & World as a Top Performer in Social Mobility.
8. Think about studying abroad
There are countless benefits, so scope out schools with renowned global education programs (Arcadia is #1 in the U.S. for study abroad).
9. Highlight your first-gen status rather than hiding it
Choose a school where you will be celebrated and feel at home.
10. Find a mentor.
"While being a first-generation student can be hard, there are people that want to help you and see you succeed," Dr. McCargo says. "Take advantage of that and make your college career the best it can be."
