First in line at university a new generation of excellence

Transitioning to university can be a time of unexpected challenges for many students, but it can also be a time of great resilience and personal development. This is especially true for first-generation students who are navigating the university experience without family to rely on. 

With the launch of the University of Calgary’s new strategic plan, Ahead of Tomorrow, first-generation students can access funding and programs uniquely tailored to support them during their transition to university though the First-Generation Students program.

“I wasn’t sure what resources I had available to me or what I could access” says Nimra Ahad, a Bachelor of Science student and a mentor with the program. “As a first-generation student, you are the pioneers in your families to navigate university life.” From figuring out a balanced course load to finding the best study spots, Ahad finds the pressures all too real. 

First-generation students are defined as those whose parents, caregivers or chosen family did not attend post-secondary education. This group also includes international students who are the first in their families to attend college or university in Canada.

In 2023, UCalgary’s Student Success Centre piloted a First-Generation Students community aiming to provide a platform for these students to access resources, academic supports and mentorship. 

“First-generation students can face challenges with the hidden curriculum of the university, especially in their first few years,” says Mariann Howell, BA’15, MEd’19, co-ordinator of First-Generation Student programs. The term "hidden curriculum" refers to lessons that may not be explicitly stated, such as navigating campus resources, building academic connections and advocating for oneself within the university systems. “The hope is to help them navigate these challenges by offering them resources that are dedicated specifically for them.”

The program officially launched at a fall kickoff event in September that included a panel discussion featuring student speakers who shared their knowledge and lived experiences as first-gens. Each panellist provided valuable insights on their unique experiences, such as time-management skills, accessing co-op programs, learning to prioritize and exploring effective study habits. 

“Make time for the things that bring you joy; we are more than our academics,” said Hailey Barrell, BSc’22, a PhD candidate in biochemistry at the Faculty of Science. “Being first-generation is so valuable.” This perspective offers a different lens for students, bringing an enriching and inspiring experience for future generations. First-gen students like Barrell show that university is about navigating experiences while paving the way for others to join the journey.

The event also featured multiple interactive stations where students connected with other first-gen students, built relationships, and engaged in fun activities like giant Jenga, a collaborative art project, time capsule-crafting and button-making. 

The kickoff marked a milestone for UCalgary in supporting first-generation students, ensuring they are equipped with the tools needed to succeed at university, no matter one’s background. 

“Be proud of being first-generation — there is lots of resilience and empathy that comes with it,” said Daniel Curdov, a Bachelor of Science student and moderator of the panel discussion.

Find out more about First-Generation programs to support UCalgary students’ needs.