First-Generation Students | Springfield College

First-Generation Students

Are you a first-generation college student?

You are not alone. Twenty-seven percent (27%) of the student body at Springfield College is considered first-generation. You are part of an exceptional group of students who are forging new grounds and building a bright future. The fact that you made it this far, demonstrates your resilience and commitment. You have much to be proud of!

Springfield College - First Generation

Members of the Division of Campus Life and Community Engagement are dedicated to ensuring that you have the necessary resources for success. At Springfield College, you will find the support you need to succeed in the classroom, engage in service and leadership opportunities, and join clubs and groups that interest you as you grow on your self-authored journey, whatever that may entail. We are committed to making you feel at home. Please get in touch with us at campuslife@springfield.edu or (413) 748-3922 for any questions you may have.

We are committed to making first-generation students feel at home at Springfield College. 

Academic Advising at Springfield College

Tips and Resources Created for Your Success

First-generation Mentoring Program

The First-generation Mentoring Program is sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs.  Incoming first-year, first-generation students are matched with a faculty , staff,  or upper class first-gen student from Springfield College for valuable support and guidance through the academic year. Ongoing conversations and meetings between students and their mentors are essential to the mentoring program’s success. Students applying for this mentoring opportunity commit to weekly check-ins and communication with their mentor for the entire academic year.

Through a series of one-on-one meetings and messages, your mentor will help you learn how to:

  • Navigate Springfield College
  • Access help from all offices on campus
  • Identify your strengths, values, and goals
  • Connect with other students and become involved on campus
  • Access tutorial service and academic support
  • Apply for work-study and summer job opportunities
  • Engage with the Springfield College Humanics philosophy 

 

 

The Pressures of Excelling Academically

Your academic success is not only important to you but also to your family and community. We are committed to connecting you to valuable resources to ensure you excel academically. Some of these resources include: 

Paying for College/Understanding Financial Aid

We know college is expensive and navigating this alone can be overwhelming. Grants, scholarships, loans, and on-campus job opportunities can make college more affordable than students think. Some resources on campus that can help you navigate your finances include:

Navigating Self-Doubt

The college experience can be intimidating, even scary, initially for all first-year students. Questions such as, "Am I a fit for college?" and "Who am I doing this for?" can percolate and distract you from pursuing your goals. It is okay to ask for help. Some resources on campus that can help you include:

The College Experience is Challenging

Determining where to get  information/support can feel overwhelming. However, resources such as the Registrar, Disability and Accessibility Services, and Student Affairs are all welcoming offices and can be the key to solving many student concerns and questions.

First-generation Students Make a Difference

There is something special about being the first in your family to attend and graduate college. First-generation students are forging the path for their families, siblings, community, and, most importantly, themselves. It is up to you to make the most of your experience. Some resources on campus that can help you do that include:

Being a first-generation student means embracing the college experience as my opportunity to learn and grow with an open mind and resilience toward a degree. As a first-generation Vietnamese-American, it is my chance to thank my family for their sacrifices and earn our degree with pride and success. Cathy Pham, Master’s Graduate Student
Cathy Pham, Master’s Graduate Student

Resources to Help You from New Student Orientation to Graduation

Support ServicesAcademic and Career ResourcesGetting Involved
These resources will support you in spirit, mind, and body.Academic success, exploring majors and career paths, and preparing for life after graduation are critical to your success.Students who get involved in cocurricular life have the best college experience. There’s something for everyone.

FAQ for First-generation Students

FAQ for Parents/Guardians of First-generation Students