Different departments and organizations at the University of Alabama hosted a week of celebration in honor of National First-Generation College Student Day on Thursday.
The week featured events open to first-generation students and UA faculty and staff to learn about scholarship opportunities and application methods. It also included career guidance and support as well as a luncheon, and on Saturday there was a watch party for the Alabama-LSU football game.
Nate Owens, program coordinator for First-Gen programs at the University, said he hopes students gain support from the weeklong celebration.
“One of the most powerful things that we can provide to students is a place for them to build community and to belong,” Owens said. “So hopefully, when we zoom out on this week, it reflects the support that we hope to provide to students.”
A scholarship panel held on Wednesday gave advice on topics such as approaching applications. Panel speakers included Owens; Karmiya Little, Legacy Scholars president; and Leslie Wiggins, college scholarships coordinator for the College of Arts and Sciences.
Little highlighted the value of having mentors who motivate first-generation students to apply for financial assistance. She also cautioned against setting personal limitations based on doubt, and advised students to encourage others dealing with such doubts.
“Take the advice that you’re given, and don’t doubt yourself. Don’t think that you’re not going to get it [a scholarship] or that you’re any less deserving than the next person,” Little said. “A lot of it is being able to look at what you’ve done, be proud of it and tell it to the next person.”
Members on the panel said that by talking to other students who have experience with scholarship applications, or faculty members who can lead you in the right direction, the process can be less overwhelming.
Wiggins said some common mistakes students make when applying for scholarships include leaving questions blank, not applying because they think too many others have entered, and being hesitant to talk themselves up.
Only about 20% of eligible students apply for the first-generation student scholarship, and that students shouldn’t leave questions blank or assume it does not apply to them, Wiggins said.
The UA Career Center provided mock interviews and resume support resources for first-generation students on Thursday in an effort to help such students feel more comfortable during interviews.
“We value workshops and scholarships … but you need that community piece because that adds layers of support,” Owens said. “We create that opportunity where relationships happen organically, and I think that goes a long way in keeping students here and helping them throughout their process too.”
Although the University has options for involvement, Owens said that reaching out and taking the step to attend a first meeting or contacting a new group can be intimidating.
“We’re safe. We know what it’s like. Land with us, come to some community dinners, get involved a little bit while you figure out all of the other things that campus has to offer,” Owens said. “You’ll be okay.”
