First-Generation College Student
Dear Parent of a Gonzaga University First-Generation College Student,
Thank you for entrusting Gonzaga University with your student for the next few years. We know firsts can be exciting and anxiety provoking – first kisses, first day on the job, first man on the moon – and that’s why we want to thank you for taking the first step in your students college career. We are excited to welcome them to our community. We would like to thank you and believe you should give yourself a pat on the back for the foundation you have provided your student and for encouraging and supporting your student to the start of this new journey.
What is first-generation?
The term “first generation student” is defined as a student, regardless of racial identity, who is the first in their family to attend college. For some, this may mean “whose parents did not attend college” or “whose parents did not graduate with a baccalaureate degree”. Whichever definition may apply to you is what makes your families and student’s story special. We honor the dignity, sacrifices, determination and tenacity required to make it through the college admissions process. Leaving your student at GU will be an unfamiliar and overwhelming experience. As of this moment moving forward, the Gonzaga community is committed to you and your student to be supportive of your student’s navigation of the college experience.
Last year’s incoming class welcomed approximately 20% of students who identified as first generation. The diversity of cultures and life experiences is what makes Jesuit education so special. You and your student are part of the Gonzaga family that wants our students to bring their whole selves to the classroom, residence hall, club and organizations. The values and care you instilled in your student are what has prepared them to go out into the world and that makes them an integral part of our campus community.
We recognize you are by far the expert when it comes to your student. That is why we want to provide you with more tools in preparation for the transition to college life. Below are some strategies for you with ways to continue supporting your student from afar:
Good to Know
- Know that they love and miss you. They will not forget about you.
- With that in mind, they will be busy as the student class and activity schedule varies. They are no longer only busy from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm.
- Student, staff, and faculty want to help and are here are their educators, mentors, and resources.
- Your student may feel isolated and out of place. This is natural since they are in a new environment.
- Join the Gonzaga Parent and Family Association to stay up to date on important university information. There is a community of First Generation parents who will share with you their experiences, challenges and joys. Your are part of the Gonzaga community
- Remember the first six weeks can be a difficult transition period and college is a new process to you and your student. Be patient, ask questions, and listen!
Listen to your student. They may call and be frustrated by something that happened and here is where you can do the following:
- Encourage your student ask for help from professors, their resident assistant or staff.
- Encourage your student to connect with resources such as First Year Experience Programs, tutoring, writing centers, the counseling center, mentoring, and academic advising.
- Encourage your student to find on campus employment. The more engaged they are on campus the more eyes are on them to help them through their transition.
For more resources and to hear other first-generation stories, we encourage you to visit the “I’m First” campaign website: www.imfirst.org this is an online community celebrating first-generation college students and supporting those who will be.
Once again, welcome to the Gonzaga University community!
Sincerely,
Kelly Alvarado and “I’m first”
Manager
First Year Experience Programs
David H. Garcia and “I’m first”
Assistant Director
Unity Multicultural Education Center