First Gen UWRF

What does it mean to be “First Gen”?

Here at UWRF, over 40% of our students are first generation college students. You’ve probably heard that statistic before… but what does it really mean, and even more so, why is this significant? Exact definitions of a “first generation college student” vary, but the University of Wisconsin-River Falls would describe you as a first generation college student if neither of your parents or guardians completed a 4-year bachelor degree or higher. If your guardians or parents received some college education or an Associate's Degree, or if a sibling or grandparent has graduated with a 4-year bachelor degree, you would still be identified as a first generation college student. If this sounds like you, congratulations on being in the first generation in your family to complete your bachelor’s degree!

Navigating college is challenging, even when you grew up talking about what to expect at home. Starting school without knowing what to expect can be a stressful undertaking, it can be easy to feel unsure about what steps to take. There may be times when your family doesn’t have the answers to your questions about college, or they might not be know the next steps that you should take. It might feel like you are navigating your experience on your own. Being the first in your family to pursue your bachelor’s degree is a point of pride, and at UWRF, we have so many amazing ways for you to get connected and find support. All it takes is pushing yourself to get out and explore!

First Gen UWRF

Being a first generation college student can sometimes feel overwhelming, but you are not alone in this. Check out First Gen at UWRF. This page has multiple videos of other current first generation students and staff who currently at UW-River Falls. All these First Gen students who are in these videos give great advice for all who are taking that leap and they give their personal input from the perspective of First Gen students. Here's one to get you started!

National First Gen Day

We also want to leave you knowing that First Gen Day is right around the corner! UW-River Falls will be joining in the national celebration of first generation college students on Friday, November 8th. Offices will be highlighting services that they offer students during a First Gen Fair in the Falcon’s Nest from 11am-1pm. There will be cookies, refreshments, a photobooth to share your First Gen story, and opportunities to hear from faculty and staff about their first gen experience. Wear your “I am First Gen” button with pride and look for others with their pins! Lastly, know that you are already doing it… you are already on your way to earning that degree. Keep on pushing yourself, don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way, and take time to be proud of yourself!

Looking for ways to get out and get involved this month? Here are a few things coming up that you can look forward to attending:

First Gen UWRF Fair
Friday, November 8th from 11am-1pm in the Falcon’s Nest

We Are Falcons Values Series: Leadership in the 21st Century
Wednesday, November 20th from 7pm-8:30pm in the Kinni Theater, UC

Taco Bout It Tuesday
Tuesday, November 26 from 11am-1pm in the Falcon’s Nest