Preparing for College as a First-Generation College Student
Brought to you by: Office of Student Transitions & TRiO Student
Support Services
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Work at least part-time Are less involved on campus Expect to
live off-campus their first year Have less encouragement &
support from family & friends Are less academically prepared
Have lowered self-efficacy Source: Woosley, S., & Shepler, D.
(2011) Understanding the Early Integration Experiences of
First-Generation College Students. College Student Journal, 45(4),
700-714. All of these factors can lead to DROPPING OUT!
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High school vs. College Increased academic rigor Responsibility
& accountability Time management Plan ahead Prioritize
assignments & activities Study skills STEP YA GAME UP!
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Majors: STEM Science, technology, engineering, &
mathematics Examples: biology, nursing, geosciences, radiologic
technology, etc. Courses: BIOL 2010/2011 (Anatomy &Physiology)
MATH 1530 (Statistics) Know what you need 4-year plan;
Undergraduate Bulletin Tutoring Supplemental Instruction Select
courses based on your talents
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Managing finances Selecting cost-effective options (e.g.
residence hall & meal plan choices) Additional college expenses
Determining needs vs. wants Financial aid Submit FAFSA early!
JANURARY 1!!! Apply for scholarships Minimize student loan debt
Financial aid limits Satisfactory Academic Progression (SAP)
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Most courses = 3 credit hours Most science labs = 1 credit hour
Full-time student = 12 credit hours 4 courses (on average)
Bachelors degree = 120 credit hours 4 year completion = 15 credit
hours per semester (with NO deviation) Satisfactory Academic
Progress GPA ~ Be in good standing Pace ~ Earn 67% of attempted
hours
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Home: Family & friends Educate & explain Set realistic
expectations Know when to say when Create new circles Variety ~
peers, faculty, & staff Become involved Inside & outside of
the classroom
TRiO Student Support Services Academic Support Center Adult
& Non-Traditional Student Center Counseling Services Disability
Services Hispanic Culture Center Military Student Center Wilbur N.
Daniel African American Cultural Center
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TR I O S TUDENT S UPPORT S ERVICES [email protected]
931-221-6142 Ellington 337 S TUDENT T RANSITIONS
[email protected] 931-221-7607 University Center 210
