Mentoring first-generation students

First-generation college students are those whose parents did not attend or complete college. They face a number of challenges that their non-first-generation peers do not, such as financial aid, navigating the college system, and feeling isolated on campus. Mentoring can help first-generation students overcome these challenges and succeed in college.

There is a growing body of research that shows the benefits of mentoring for first-generation students. Studies have found that mentored first-generation students are more likely to persist in college, graduate, and earn higher GPAs. They are also more likely to feel connected to their college and to have a positive college experience.

There are many different types of mentoring programs for first-generation students. Some programs match students with mentors who are professionals in their field, while others match students with current or former college students. Some programs are one-on-one, while others are group-based.

The most important thing to look for in a mentoring program is one that is tailored to the needs of first-generation students. The program should provide students with the support and resources they need to succeed in college. It should also be culturally responsive, taking into account the unique challenges that first-generation students face.

If you are a first-generation student, I encourage you to seek out a mentoring program. Mentoring can be a valuable asset in your college journey. It can provide you with the support and guidance you need to succeed.

Here are some of the benefits of mentoring for first-generation students:

• Increased academic success: Mentors can help first-generation students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in college. They can also provide guidance on academic planning and time management.
• Improved college retention: Mentors can help first-generation students stay on track and avoid dropping out of college. They can also provide support during difficult times, such as when a student is struggling with a difficult class or dealing with personal problems.
• Increased sense of belonging: Mentors can help first-generation students feel more connected to their college and to the college community. They can also provide guidance on how to get involved on campus and make friends.
• Enhanced career development: Mentors can help first-generation students explore their career interests and develop the skills they need to succeed in their chosen fields. They can also provide guidance on networking and job searching.

If you are a first-generation student, here are some tips for finding a mentor:

• Talk to your professors, advisors, and other college staff: They may be able to connect you with a mentor who is a professional in your field of interest.
• Reach out to alumni of your college: Alumni may be willing to mentor current students, especially if they are first-generation students themselves.
• Search for mentoring programs online: There are many mentoring programs available for first-generation students. You can find them by searching online or by contacting your college's financial aid office.

No matter how you find a mentor, it is important to remember that mentoring is a two-way street. Mentors can provide valuable support and guidance, but it is also important for mentees to be open to learning and to be willing to put in the work to succeed. With the right mentor, first-generation students can overcome the challenges they face and achieve their educational goals.

Here are a few examples of mentoring programs for first-generation students at universities and colleges:

• The Posse Foundation: The Posse Foundation is a national nonprofit organization that identifies high-potential, low-income students from urban and rural communities and matches them with mentors from the business, civic, and academic communities. Posse Scholars attend partner colleges and universities, where they receive financial aid, academic support, and leadership development opportunities.
• The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Walmart Foundation First-Generation Scholars Mentorship Program: The TMCF Walmart Foundation First-Generation Scholars Mentorship Program matches first-generation college students with mentors who are TMCF alumni, corporate leaders, or community leaders. The program provides mentors and mentees with opportunities to connect, learn from each other, and build relationships.
• The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Mentoring Program: The AAUW Mentoring Program matches first-generation college women with mentors who are AAUW members. The program provides mentors and mentees with opportunities to connect, learn from each other, and build relationships.
• The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Mentorship Program: The NSBE Mentorship Program matches first-generation college students with mentors who are NSBE members and professionals in engineering fields. The program provides mentors and mentees with opportunities to connect, learn from each other, and build relationships.
• The Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) Mentorship Program: The HACU Mentorship Program matches first-generation college students with mentors who are HACU alumni, corporate leaders, or community leaders. The program provides mentors and mentees with opportunities to connect, learn from each other, and build relationships.

These are just a few examples of the many mentoring programs available for first-generation students at universities and colleges. If you are a first-generation student, I encourage you to seek out a mentoring program. Mentoring can be a valuable asset in your college journey. It can provide you with the support and guidance you need to succeed.

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Declaimer: This article was generated with the help of Bard, a large language model from Google AI. Bard is still under development, and it is not able to generate text that is completely accurate or error-free. The information in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice.

I, Tri Dev Acharya, do not make any representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information. Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. I will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this article or any links provided.