

The First Generation Initiative (FGI) was established in 2010 to ensure academic success for first-generation college students, or those who are the first generation in their family to attend a postsecondary institution.
Young people who are the first generation in their family to attend college can shatter an intergenerational cycle of poverty because when they obtain a degree, they enter jobs comparable to—and earn salaries comparable to—other entry-level professionals. But many students in a first-generation situation never make it to college, and too many under-represented students are not graduating at the same rate as their classmates. This mission-inspired initiative goes beyond college access and focuses on college readiness and retention in order to help first-generation students successfully complete a college education.
The program serves students at two possible stages in their education, high school and college. High school students from partner Lasallian and Catholic high schools have the opportunity to participate in Countdown to College, a four-year summer program that helps boost academic skills necessary for college readiness. First-generation students who enroll at Saint Mary's for undergraduate studies have access to academic, social, and cultural support. First-generation students need not participate in the Countdown to College program to be eligible for services.
The FGI Office provides academic support to first-generation students at Saint Mary's through additional academic advising, structured study halls, and more. High-need students may be eligible for additional financial support through our First Generation Scholars program. Social support is provided through regular social and cultural activities as well as workshops.
First-generation students who need help maintaining a successful G.P.A. have access to additional academic support services during the academic year including tutoring, literacy classes, advising, evening study hours, peer mentoring, and more. University faculty and staff are trained to best serve the needs of first-generation students.
First Generation Scholars is a scholarship program established for high-need, high-potential, first-generation students from partner Lasallian and Catholic high schools.
It is important for first-generation students to make connections with other students and create a support system to be successful at college.
The FGI program has benefited me in so many ways because the community is so welcoming, making it feel like a family. Not only do they provide us resources for academic help but the people in FGI also serve as our mentors and friends. FGI is not exclusive to FGI scholars but to other students on campus as well. We treat each other with respect and we all get along. It is a small community but we all support each other.
The FGI community has grown to be a lot bigger than it was when I came in as a freshman. More people come to FGI and more people participate in our FGI events because after all, everyone is welcomed, not only FGI scholars. Having a group of people I can relate to helps me keep pushing myself to be great.
Assistant Director of First Generation Initiative and Learning Services
Student Success Center and First Generation Initiative
Dean of Student Success and First Generation Initiative
Student Success Center and First Generation Initiative
Countdown to College and Tutoring Coordinator
Student Success Center and First Generation Initiative
Director of First Generation Initiative and Learning Assistance
Student Success Center and First Generation Initiative