Show Notes

First-generation students bring determination, resilience, and ambition to higher education. Yet many also face challenges that institutions may not fully understand, including navigating unfamiliar systems, finding a sense of belonging, and learning how to advocate for themselves.

In this episode, Julio Abreu, author of the new book First-Generation Voices of Success, discusses the experiences of first-generation students and what colleges and universities can do to better support them.

Through stories of perseverance, achievement, and personal growth, Julio shares lessons that can help enrollment, marketing, and student success professionals create more welcoming and supportive environments for the students they serve.

What You'll Learn

• Why personal stories can help institutions better understand the first-generation student experience
• Common challenges first-generation students face before and during college
• How belonging influences student confidence, engagement, and success
• Why self-advocacy is a critical skill for navigating higher education
• Ways colleges can encourage students to seek help and access support services
• Areas where institutions still have opportunities to improve support for first-generation students
• Key lessons from First-Generation Voices of Success for enrollment, marketing, and student success leaders
• What higher education professionals need to better understand first-generation students today