Emerson College is excited to welcome students who will be the first in their family to graduate from college! We understand that this journey can be challenging, and that's why HIVE is here to support you and your family. Whether you're an undergraduate, transfer, or graduate student, our goal is to help you achieve your educational and career goals.
Throughout the academic year, we offer various resources such as workshops, social gatherings, and mentoring opportunities. We also celebrate National First Generation College Student Day and provide additional support and services to assist you in your college experience.
At Emerson, we want you to know that being the first in your family doesn't mean you're alone. Our dedicated staff and faculty are available to support you throughout your journey. We understand the investment you're making in your education and want to create an environment where you can thrive.
Who Is a First-Generation Student?
The standard definition: A first-generation college student is someone whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) did not complete a four-year college degree or its equivalent.
But it's not always that simple. We recognize that "first-gen or not first-gen" isn't a clean line for everyone. Questions like these matter:
- What if a parent earned a degree outside the United States?
- What about students from blended families, or those who didn't grow up with the parent who holds a degree?
- What if a student is the first in their family to pursue a graduate or professional program?
- What about students whose lived experience closely mirrors that of first-gen peers, even if they don't fit the standard definition?
At Emerson, we take a broader view. If you feel you align with the first-gen identity — if you're navigating higher education without a family roadmap — we want to support and celebrate you.
First-Gen Students Bring Incredible Strengths
Being first-gen means you've already done something remarkable. First-generation students bring a powerful set of assets to Emerson, including:
- Resilience and grit developed through navigating new systems
- Unique perspectives that enrich our creative community
- Strong motivation to give back to your family and community
- Adaptability — you've learned to figure things out
Your story, background, and experience make Emerson stronger.
In February 2022, Emerson College received the First-Gen Forward designation from the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA). This designation recognizes our commitment to improving the experiences and outcomes of first-generation college students. As a selected institution, we have access to professional development, community-building experiences, and valuable research and resources from the Center for First-generation Student Success.
For additional information, please contact Chris Grant at Christopher_Grant [at] emerson.edu (Christopher_Grant[at]emerson[dot]edu).