First Generation College Students

FGEN students pose in front of the Pilot Oak.

First Generation College Students

 

Who Are First Generation College Students?

First Generation (FGEN) students are defined by the University of Portland as those students where neither parent or guardian has earned a four-year college degree. At UP, approximately 30 percent of the student population identifies as a first generation college student.

About FGEN at UP

Our first generation community serves as a resource for all FGEN students and families to ensure a smooth and successful transition from high school to college life and beyond. All students find that they are unfamiliar with some aspects of college processes, language, programs, and resources, often leaving all with unanswered questions. With this web page we would like to reach out and provide information about different programs and events on campus and general campus information that you may be unaware of. The information on this web page is aimed to help with your academic, financial, and social success during your time at UP.

Throughout the academic year we sponsor workshops and social events as well as highlight events of interest.  We have several leadership opportunities that allow FGEN students to work on programming within the FGEN community.  We would encourage you to browse through the resources available on our FGEN website to get a better sense of our FGEN community. 

If you are the first, or among the first in your family to go to college, we are thrilled you are calling the University of Portland home!  Welcome to our vibrant and energetic University community.  We would love for you to join us and participate in the events we offer throughout the school year.

FGEN students pose in front of selfie wall at FGEN week festivities.

Resources for FGEN Students & Families

Our purpose is making sure that you and your families receive the support and guidance that you need to make the most of your years here at University of Portland.

First Generation Student Ambassadors

First Generation (FGEN) Student Ambassadors lead and coordinate targeted programming opportunities for FGEN students at the University of Portland. In addition, this position offers a peer mentorship component to first-year students, creating a new opportunity for FGEN first-year to connect to FGEN upper class students. Learn more about the current FGEN program by watching the video.

Visit Our Student Ambassadors Page

Faces of FGEN: Faculty Highlight

Dr. Simon Aihiokhai 
Associate Professor of Theology

"During my undergraduate studies, I had three professors who helped me to become what I am today."

Learn More About Dr. Simon Aihiokhai 

Faces of FGEN: Staff Highlight

Marija Kovacevic Hobbs
Associate Director of Alumni Engagement

"My college experience was life-changing. I would not have made the personal or professional contacts I did had I not attended the University of Portland."

Learn More About Marija Kovacevic Hobbs

Faces of FGEN: Alumni Highlight

Alexys Bermudez - Waimea, Hawaii - Class of 2018
Biology

"When things get challenging, be confident in your abilities and your willingness to succeed. Trust yourself and be firm in your decisions."

Learn More About Alexys Bermudez

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