Orientation

First Gen at UW

Are you the first one in your family to go to college? Did you know that nearly 32 percent of undergraduate students enrolled across our three UW campuses are first-generation students?

Ways to Engage in the Community 

We are here to support you and help you find a community at UW. Here are a couple of tips to start you off. 

1. First-Gen Opt-In List - First year students can opt-in to stay informed about first-gen specific events and resources through the first year checklist (update your communication preferences task).  If faculty and staff want to connect with first-year students please review our faculty and staff website.  

2. National First-Gen Celebration Day - Mark your calendar for November 8 to celebrate your amazing accomplishment of going to college as a first-generation student! Be on the lookout for more information in your email about events and activities.

Tips from current UW first-gen students:

  1. Talk to your adviser, especially during your first quarter. Share with them that you are first-gen and don’t be afraid to ask questions

  2. Don’t be afraid to ask questions of your professors and teaching assistants. Being proactive can help you feel less intimidated and overwhelmed.

  3. Research and know your resources. UW has resources for so many things -- and a lot of them are here in this Husky Guide -- but they can pass you by if you don’t look for them.

 

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