The University of Montevallo recently hosted its annual First-Generation Celebration in recognition of First-Generation Week, in which colleges across the nation celebrate the experiences of their first-generation college students, faculty and staff.
Attendees gathered in front of Farmer Hall on Nov. 7 to enjoy popcorn, cupcakes, a photo booth and props, music, yard games and various freebies. They also had an opportunity to learn about all the resources UM offers to help first-generation students thrive.
The federal Higher Education Act defines a first-generation college student as someone whose parent or guardian did not earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in the United States. Without the help or advice of immediate family members who have experienced college life, these students often encounter obstacles when navigating higher education on their own.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” said Julean Kirkpatrick, coordinator for UM’s Great Start Program, a supportive, alternative-admission program that helps first-year students successfully transition from high school to college. “A lot of students struggle with asking for help when they need it. There are people here to help you — you just have to reach out.”
The Great Start Program is just one of many resources designed to support first-generation students on their path to success at UM. Sponsors for the First-Generation Celebration included:
- The Engaged Education and Public Service Office, which fosters community engagement through mutually beneficial partnerships by placing UM students in diverse service-learning positions throughout the community
- The Falcon Success Center, which offers free tutoring and academic counseling and coaching to students
- Montevallo MADE, a program that assists first-year, underserved student populations in successfully transitioning to college life
- TRIO Student Support Services, which provides academic assistance, leadership development and educational support services to 200 students who meet federal criteria for being first-generation, low-income and/or having disabilities
- TRIO Ronald E. McNair Post-Baccalaureate Achievement Program, which effectively prepares college students for doctoral study
Another benefit for first-generation students at Montevallo is small class sizes. With a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the close-knit learning environment gives students the opportunity for more one-on-one time with their professors and personalized academic support.
“The intimate classroom experiences our students get to have is very important,” said Randi Tubbs, director of Falcon Success and Learning Enrichment Centers. “We will know the student’s name, not their number. We’ll see them when we’re walking around campus and say “hi” to them. I don’t think that could happen as often at a bigger university.”
For more information about the University’s resources for first-generation students, visit mblayst.com.
