Navigating college as a first-generation student can feel like stepping into uncharted territory. The unfamiliarity, the uncertainty, and sometimes the doubt can make the experience overwhelming. Yet, for many, it’s the connections made along the way—the micro-moments of support, encouragement, and understanding—that transform the journey into one of growth and success. At IU Southeast, we recognize the unique challenges first-gen students face, and we are committed to fostering a community where they can thrive.
A Defining Moment in Freshman Orientation
By: Ryan Norwood, Director, Student Success Center
Being a first-generation college graduate has been of great benefit when working with students of similar backgrounds. Being able to reflect on the extremely unknown territory of the college provides a common context when helping students navigate their unique path toward success. After 21 years of working in higher education, I continuously remind myself of the awesome experience I had on the day of my freshman orientation.
Completely lost, with much self-doubt, during my first experience on campus (freshman orientation), I felt like I didn’t belong. Later that day, someone completely changed my mind. A young, first-year advisor sensed my trepidation and took me to the side; impressive considering I was not hysterical, but he could tell there were some underlying nerves. We talked about his similar experiences as an incoming freshman and talked with me about how college changed him for the better, not just through academics, but also the social aspect of meeting new and different people. It was this micro-moment in time that would allow for my own transformative experience in college.
Ultimately, this reflection reminds me of the impact we can have through our shared experiences, especially in the unexpected, micro-moments like I had with an advisor. I never take for granted the opportunity for impact in unexpected, sometimes non-academic and informal conversations with students. I also try to recognize the sometimes-subtle undertones of uncertainty, doubt, or alienation that are common themes for first-gen students to help facilitate great conversation and engagement to let them know that they are not alone and there are many opportunities and resources to help them be their best version of themselves. Helping students understand that being first-generation is something to be proud of, something of accomplishment is constantly at the forefront of the conversation. I understand this as much as anyone: thank you to that special advisor who did this for me!
The Role of Campus Support in Student Success
By: Richard Stettenbenz, Student Success Coach
Being a first-generation and non-traditional student, I struggled through my first two years of college. I started at 25, and while my life experience helped, it took years to understand the importance of campus resources. I often describe my semesters as rollercoasters: starting strong, but as anxiety and life pressures multiplied, my engagement dipped until the final weeks when I scrambled to turn everything in. It wasn't sustainable, something had to change.
My campus engagement was minimal—I would walk to class and then back to my car. In my junior year, I noticed a flyer for free counseling. In that small counseling room, I learned the importance of campus belonging. My counselor became my first real connection to campus. The skills and conversations I had there equipped me with tools to manage my time, study effectively, and prioritize self-care (sleep is key). She inspired me to pursue grad school and convinced me I wasn't too old to get involved. Today, as a Student Success Coach, I pass those same skills along to students. I hope to be that connection for them, just as someone was for me because sometimes all it takes is feeling like you belong.
A Student’s Perspective: Embracing Resources and Opportunities
By: Student, IU Southeast
Being a first-generation college student has come with its challenges, but the campus resources available have been valuable in navigating this new academic journey. From tutoring services to academic advising, these resources have provided the support and guidance I have needed to succeed in ways I hadn't anticipated.
The different places on campus that are available to sit to either do homework, chill and relax, or hang out with friends have made me feel very welcomed and comfortable. The different opportunities to get involved here on campus are another resource to help me out socially. The advisors here on campus, along with other faculty and students, have helped guide me to where I should be. I transferred schools and have changed my major twice, and everyone here has been very helpful and supportive of my choices. I am very thankful for those who have been there, and those here at IU Southeast have been a big part of that.
For more information on Indiana University Southeast's approach, please visit their website here.
