UT Austin is launching a new program to connect approximately 23 percent of incoming students who identify as first-generation to resources and peers who share their experiences. New Student Services has created the First-Generation Student Welcome for these students during Freshman and Transfer Orientation.
“It will be great to offer these incoming students a sense of comfort. The most challenging part is navigating the world of college without having someone to guide you,” shared sophomore Rachel Gonzalez, a psychology major from Killeen, Texas.
Orientation advisors like Gonzalez will lead a panel discussion, sharing personal stories, advice and resources. Nearly 30 percent of orientation advisors identify as first-generation, meaning neither parent or guardian in their household earned a four-year degree.
Orientation Advisors Summer 2018
The goal is to create an environment for new students to build relationships and community with 9,000 fellow first-generation Longhorns who can relate. There is a similar program for their parents and families during Family Orientation.
“Orientation is when students begin their university journey, so creating a supportive atmosphere early on will help them feel at home,” said Celena Mondie-Milner, New Student Services director and First-Generation Commitment Working Group co-chair.
In addition to this program, the university hosted the first annual First-Generation Recognition Ceremony on May 22 to honor graduates.
In the fall, two dozen first-year, first-gen students will move into a newly created University Housing and Dining Living Learning Community. The university will host the second annual First-Generation College Celebration Day, concurrent with the national celebration, the week of Nov. 4.
Orientation day one is done, complete with pounding headache and mid-session nap, but tomorrow is going to be an even longer day. Just trying to recharge and figure out why I feel so sick before the 6 am- 10 pm shift tomorrow.
Things making me happy right now: my mom sending me 14+ photos of her garden, the new orientation apparel we received today, I finished all my work last night, I'm going to play volleyball with my friends soon, these grapes, and that it's finally officially summer.
