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First-Generation Student ACUE Toolkit

Cultivating a Sense of Belonging in First-Generation Students

Approximately 30% of first-generation students, defined as those whose parents did not complete a bachelor’s degree, drop out of college within three years.

In ACUE’s First-Gen Toolkit, you will learn the three practices that will equipt you with actionable practices you can immediately implement to create a culture of belonging across campus.

Explore the first part of the toolkit, Demystify Campus Language, below – and fill out the form for full access and learn about cultivating a sense of belonging in first-gen families and reducing the potential impact of imposter phenomenon. 

Access the Full
First-Gen Toolkit

1. Demystify Campus Language

First-generation students and their families may benefit from a glossary to help them navigate through the terminology that is unique to higher education. You may want to provide an accessible online or hard copy of a glossary during Open House, orientation, admissions, residence life, and through any on- or off-campus first-generation organizations. 

Download an example of a glossary published by the S. News and World Report (Narayan, 2011) for first-generation students and their families. 

Ready to Access the Full Toolkit?

Complete the form above to learn about cultivating a sense of belonging in families and reducing the potential impact of imposter phenomenon.