First-Generation Students
Defining First-Generation can be complicated. L&C considers first-generation as neither parents (or guardians) have earned a bachelor’s degree. We encourage you to reach out to IME if you have questions about this definition and/or would like to share more about your experience.
We have several resources and annual events to support our first-generation student population:
- The newly launched First-Generation Mentorship Program aims to bridge the generational gap by supporting our first-generation college students! By sharing insider knowledge regarding industries, institutional knowledge of higher education, and navigating complex societal systems; first-generation college students enrolled in our mentorship program will be in the good hands of their mentors and in the community of other first-generation individuals.
- Our Great Expectations Mentorship Program (GEM) is designed to support incoming BIPOC and/or First-Generation new students with their transition to college by pairing new students with continuing students who act as a peer mentor!
- The Hu/Hsieh Internship Grant underwrites or supplements expenses of first-generation college students at Lewis & Clark College who are pursuing internships in the private sector.
- First-Generation Highlights: check out some of our amazing first-generation staff, faculty and alumni as we highlight them throughout the year via our Instagram page.
- Adulting While First-Generation informal lunches are an opportunity for first-generation students, staff and faculty to come together and talk about ‘adulting 101’ topics. Topics have included how to buy a car, when to move out, what to expect about life after L&C. This is a great way to get support while having your lunch!
FirstOur annual First-Generation Celebration Day happens every November!
15%Fifteen percent of our undergraduates are first-generation students.
