There is something special about being the FIRST…

…especially being the first in your family to attend and graduate from college. I’m First!, an initiative of UStrive, is an online community celebrating first-generation college students.

Check out video stories from first-gen students, read student blogs and discover colleges that have special programs to support their first-gen students. We feature YouTube video testimonials from first-gen students and graduates from across the country. Watch some below or share your own story.

What Being a First-Gen Student Means to Me

When I sat down to write this, I had to reflect on the term that has shaped a significant portion of my education, especially my college journey....

POV: You are a First Generation Student

My name is Irelyn Rogan, and I am a first-generation college student. This is a fact that many do not know about me, including some of my closest...

Balancing Extracurriculars in the New Academic Year

As we dive into a new academic year, one of the hardest parts is readjusting to the study grind after the summer. Whether summer means hanging out...

Tips for Letters of Rec

Asking for a letter of recommendation can be intimidating, especially as a first-year. Most classes are larger, and there isn’t quite a strong...

Financial Aid Frenzy

College applications will have you looking everywhere, and one of the most complex parts of it can be the financial aspect of it. Nearly three years...

Catherine, #firstgen student at @WUSTL, has some tips on getting letters of recommendations for college admissions, scholarships, etc.!: imfirst.org/tips-for-lette… pic.twitter.com/ctD4oHOYxy