This article was originally written for FirstGenerationStudent.com, now a part of ImFirst.org.
It was always a dream of mine to go to college and, deep down, I always knew that I would ultimately go someday. And guess what? I finally made that dream of mine a reality, just one short year after high school!
This was definitely a big step for me because back in high school, I was plagued by the notion that I could not excel academically: a perception that can greatly affect one’s progress, and one that continues to negatively affect students of all ages today. As a result, I didn’t take my classes seriously in high school and received poor grades. It wasn’t until after high school that I finally realized my dreams—dreams to do bigger and better things with my life.
However, when the time came, I found the experience a little terrifying. I felt alone, isolated and lost in the many processes and formalities that are required to be successful in college. At the time, it also bothered me to admit that I was the first person in my family who made it to college. Surprisingly, I actually felt somewhat uncomfortable, instead of proud and happy to be identified as a first-generation college student.
Fortunately, my local mentors anticipated this feeling of estrangement and guided me through the process while providing unstinted emotional and financial support. The initial steps are very important; I learned this the hard way during college, and later realized that many first-generation college students like me are unaware of the processes required to successfully prepare for and succeed in college
The good news is that the initial challenges fade and the feelings of discomfort wear off soon enough; shortly after that, you begin to learn a lot on your feet. To get you started in the right direction, I want to share with you 10 small steps that will make a big difference in your journey in college:
- Get in Touch With Each Professor/ Instructor: Contact each off your professors and ask for tips and advice specific to their classes. Often, instructors assume that all students “know” how things are. Asking direct questions will help you to fully understand the expectations and requirements set forth by each instructor.
- Join Study Groups: It is important to make friends so you can pick up the “college student” way of life. Join study groups, make new friends, observe, adapt and change where appropriate.
- Get Involved in Activities on Campus or Online: You will find it easier to blend in when you spend more time on campus. Or, if you are in an online program, the discussion boards and chat rooms can be helpful. Seek out and participate in as many curricular and extra-curricular activities as possible, both on and off campus.
- Count Yourself as Part of the Group: Do not shy away from speaking in class or in a group. Often, first-generation students do not feel worthy enough to participate; however, I want you to know that you are worthy! You deserve to be heard. Your voice really matters. Remember, this feeling is only in your mind; force yourself to join in, and very soon you will feel a part of the group.
- Keep Your Family on the Same Page: Just as you are anxious, your family is, too. They—especially your parents—want the best for you and they should be kept abreast every step of the way. Educate your family and keep them on the same page, so that they can continue to support and motivate you to complete your program.
- Seek Employment Opportunities: Money will likely be one of your more pressing challenges. Hence, it is always good to seek out employment opportunities so that you can balance your academic life and expenses with less pressure and stress.
- Ask Questions: It is okay not to know everything. Ask questions when you are in doubt! It is much better to ask once and get the right answer than to keep wondering if you have the right information.
- Believe That Going to College is a Major Achievement: As I felt strongly about this particular aspect, I want to highlight this point. Going to college is a major ACHIEVEMENT! You deserve to be proud and feel happy about your accomplishments. So, let’s celebrate! 🙂
- Find and Take Remedial Classes: It is important that you feel really confident and prepared to take on college courses. Most students, who obtained above average grades in high school, find that they lag behind in certain subjects at college. Do not let this discourage you. Seek remedial classes and catch up. I took remedial math classes and the more I improved my understanding of the subject, the more confident I felt about myself in college. And, I must tell you: math was definitely not my best subject in high school.
- Network With Alumni and Students: Networking is a powerful way to build your confidence and develop a feeling of belonging. Get in touch with alumni and other students who share your curricular and extra-curricular interests and very soon you will have your own place among your peers in your college!
Remember, if you stay focused, motivated and determined, you will be well on your way to success in college with minimal worries! You can do it. I wish you much success! 🙂