First-Generation Programs
Are You a First-Generation Student?
If neither of your parents/guardians have a bachelor's degree, then you’re a first-generation (first-gen) student even if you have a sibling who is attending college or graduating ahead of you. As a first-gen student you have what it takes to succeed, but sometimes financial, family, academic or work pressures can make the first-gen student experience particularly challenging.
Are you a first-gen student graduating December 2025? If so, claim your first-gen honor cord if you haven’t already.
I always leave the meet ups with a new understanding of new information that I didn't realize I needed to know
All the advice and support I have been given has helped me continue to stay motivated with my coursework here at UofL.
Choose your fit
1st UP
Small group peer mentoring with other first-gen students plus workshops to develop your college knowledge & personal skills.
Weekly group meetup (Wednesdays or Thursdays, 12 -12:50). Includes free food!
Small group peer mentoring & a one-on-one meeting with a success coach.
READY Mentoring
One-on-one mentoring with UofL faculty or staff member for personalized support as you transition to college and build your network of success.
Every-other-week mentor appointment at a time convenient to the mentoring pair.
Six 30-minute mentoring meetings in the fall and six in the spring with your faculty or staff mentor.
Second to None
Exclusive experiences and leadership opportunities just for upperclass students, including the chance to tour local companies and meet diverse professionals, travel outside Louisville, and build your financial confidence.
New programming is paired with curated resources across campus—you decide what you need to level-up your skills.
Multiple events per month with a community of supportive first-gen peers.
Benefits of Program Participation
Completion Grant
Earn grants to help fund your college education.
Network
Get to know your community and create connections on campus that can help future careers.
Improved Success
Participants in our programs are more likely to stay enrolled at UofL, earn a higher grade point average, and earn more credit hours.
Other Important Connection Points
- First Year Experience Events & Resources
Be sure to take advantage of the First Year Experience events (Welcome Week, Winter Welcome and more) and resources, such as the UofL Lingo list and First Year FAQ. There's a lot to do and to learn, and the First Year Experience team wants to make sure you're ready to take advantage of every opportunity have the support you need to de-mystify the ins and outs of college life. - TRIO Student Support Services
TRIO helps low-income, first-generation college students and students with disabilities achieve a bachelors degree by offering students individual and group advising to foster positive study habits and academic success. They also offer a comfortable learning environment, financial counseling, leadership opportunities, cultural excursions, and academic workshops. Participation is free; learn more by clicking the link above. - Generation Cardinal Living-Learning Community
You can take advantage of an enhanced and personalized learning experience by being part of a themed living community geared specifically toward first-gen students. Meet and take classes with other students who share this identity and gain additional support navigating the college transition. This community is housed in the state-of-the-art Belknap Village South residence hall. - Student Success Coordinators
Student Success Coordinators are here to help you solve problems and develop solutions. Coordinators work collaboratively with faculty and other staff to provide guidance and support if you're experiencing academic, financial or personal difficulties. - First-Generation Student Recognition
The SSC celebrates all of UofL's first-gen students at the annual National First-Gen Student Celebration on or around November 8. In addition, fall and spring graduates receive an honor cord, which is a mark of distinction you may wear at Commencement and hold onto as a keepsake.
UofL is a FirstGen Forward Network Champion
The University of Louisville has been recognized as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion, identifying our university as a national leader in advising first-generation efforts. UofL was awarded this designation in 2024 as part of the inaugural group of only 14 institutions, with fewer than 35 institutions nationally having received this highest honor as of 2025.
“Not only is University of Louisville doing excellent work to support their own first-generation students, but they continue to provide support and add to evidence-based practices that serve as a model for all those working to support this population in higher education.” -Dr. Stephanie J. Bannister, vice president with FirstGen Forward
