How to Succeed as a First-Generation College Student

As a first-generation student, you have chosen to pave a new path for yourself. Attending college—whether at a community college or a four-year college or university—is a big decision that can impact your future. It can also raise many questions about what life as a college student looks like.

In this guide, we’ll explore:

what it means to be a first-generation student
the unique challenges you may face
five tips to overcome those challenges
how going to college can change your life
how you can craft your NCC story

What is a First-Generation College Student?

A first-generation student is the first in their family to attend college or graduate with an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Being a first-generation student is an exciting opportunity to expand your horizons, explore new academic disciplines, and gain invaluable skills and experiences that shape your future. Though the college process may feel unfamiliar, you’re not alone.
As reported by the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS) from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 54% of students in the U.S. consider themselves first-generation, meaning their parents do not have a bachelor’s degree. This highlights how your story as a first-generation student connects you to many of your classmates and offers common ground for you to build lasting relationships.

What Challenges Do First-Generation Students Face?

As a first-generation student, you might face unique challenges as you prepare for college and throughout your student experience. Many first-generation students are successful, so you feel confident, knowing that you can tackle whatever comes your way. Let your long-term goal of completing your degree fuel your progress.

Navigating the college process: From figuring out how to apply to registering for classes, starting your degree comes with a to-do list. Many of these tasks require submitting applications and forms, which can feel intimidating, especially without a parent or guardian who has been through the process. Every school has skilled admissions counselors to guide you through the process, answer any questions, and ensure your enrollment goes smoothly.
Paying for your degree: While college is a worthwhile investment, planning how you can afford tuition, fees, and supplies, along with paying for your living expenses, can be stressful. Be sure to schedule an appointment with your college’s financial aid office. These experts can provide the personalized support you need to apply for financial aid and find scholarships.
Managing your time and responsibilities: Like many students, your schoolwork may not be your only responsibility. You may work part-time, care for family members, or have other obligations. Learning to balance these commitments and manage your time and resources will be an adjustment, but you can do it. Many colleges have part-time enrollment options and online or hybrid coursework, giving you greater flexibility and the opportunity to learn at your own pace.
Wrestling with imposter syndrome: As a first-gen student, you may experience imposter syndrome, which may cause you to doubt your abilities or question whether you belong in these spaces. While it’s normal to feel this way, you belong at your college and can accomplish great things.
Not knowing the “hidden curriculum”: The concept of a “hidden curriculum” suggests that there are unwritten rules and expectations of college that are not directly taught. These may include how to communicate with professors, networking techniques, classroom expectations, and other social cues that enrich the higher education experience. The best way to overcome this is to make connections with students and faculty and ask lots of questions. This helps you and those around you learn about how your college operates and the expectations that you should meet.

Colleges like Northampton Community College (NCC) are there to champion your success and provide you with plenty of assistance so you can excel academically, professionally, and personally. Whether you need career planning support, one-on-one tutoring, or even mental health counseling services, NCC offers these student resources to help you make the most of your college experience.

Discover NCC’s Student Experience and Support.

Five Tips for First-Generation Students

1. Begin Your Studies at a Community College

While every student’s journey is different, you may consider completing your first year or two at a community college. Community colleges like NCC offer a broad range of benefits, such as location close to home, affordable tuition and fees, and expansive program options that range from accounting to trades-focused training.

If your goal is to start at NCC and transfer to complete a bachelor’s degree, we have well-established transfer agreements with many four-year colleges and universities to help ensure a smooth transition.

2. Navigate the Admission Process with a Counselor

Starting college can feel overwhelming, but there is plenty of help along the way. Before you begin the admissions process, it’s a good idea to connect with an admissions counselor at the school to which you are applying. Admissions staff provide personalized guidance, help you fill out your application, and answer any questions you have about the school.

Since 42% of Northampton students are considered first-generation, our admissions team has plenty of experience supporting individuals navigating college for the first time and ensuring an easy transition.

3. Build Your Network of Support

Forging relationships with classmates, professors, and staff is one of your most significant resources as a first-gen student. Through the support you give and receive, you cultivate a network that helps you and your peers excel, but it may require you to move beyond your comfort zone. Join a study group, meet with your professors outside of class for mentorship, and visit your academic advisor regularly. These steps keep you connected to the people invested in your success.

4. Search for First-Generation Scholarships

Every student should apply for financial aid regardless of their financial status, but student loans and grants are not the only way to pay for their education. You can apply for scholarships at the college you plan to attend, and even for outside scholarships. There are thousands of scholarships specifically for first-generation students, but you have to seek them out. NCC awards nearly 1,000 scholarships, but we also recommend using the following scholarship search engines to find funding opportunities that lower the cost of your education:

5. Embrace Every New Experience

College is an opportunity to explore your interests, try new things, and discover new possibilities. The best way to do this is simply to say “yes” to personal, educational, and professional opportunities. Apply for that internship, raise your hand and answer that question in class, and join a club to learn a new hobby and connect with other students with similar interests. Do the things that feel unfamiliar and even a bit scary (you’ll see how your confidence grows!), make new friends, and prepare yourself for an ever-changing future.

How Can Going to College Change Your Life?

Filled with determination and a strong work ethic, first-generation students like you can build their future by attending college. A college education benefits you in many ways, including:

Broaden your horizons: One of the many benefits of attending college is the opportunity to meet and learn alongside people from all cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic groups, religions, and more. As a first-generation college student, you ignite your curiosity to explore and expand your worldview.
Boost social mobility: Education has the potential to transform lives, and earning a college degree opens doors to new career opportunities that bring higher wages and improved quality of life—not just for the individual but for their families and generations to come.
Drive community impact: Typically, first-generation college students take the knowledge and skills gained through their studies and invest them back into their communities by starting businesses, pursuing leadership roles, and working as health care professionals or educators.

“Community college is a second chance for so many, myself included, to get an education and pursue their goals and dreams. I would never in a million years have imagined myself going to an amazing school like Boston University, but Northampton prepared me and gave me the resources to succeed.” - Vincent Kovacs, First Generation College Student at NCC

Are You a First-Generation Student? Your Future Begins at NCC

For nearly 60 years, Northampton Community College has been committed to providing accessible, high-quality education for all learners. With 120+ programs, an NCC education challenges you, helps you build a versatile skill set, and equips you for success—whether pursuing a skilled trade or taking general education courses to transfer to a four-year college or university.

From practical student resources to a community that offers unwavering support, NCC remains dedicated to ensuring your success. Read about first-generation students like Vincent Kovacs and Marina Gaye, who began their success stories by studying at Northampton.

Take the next step toward becoming a Spartan—apply to NCC today!

How to Succeed as a First-Generation Student (5 Tips)