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First Generation Community Welcome Eagles!

Proud to be 1st, American University

American University and The Center for Diversity & Inclusion (CDI) marks the arrival and ongoing celebration of each year’s incoming first-generation students with high imiportance. This Fall (2024), CDI will be hosting a First-Generation Affinity Social—an event that takes place during New Eagle Welcome Week that allows first-year and new transfer students to connect with their peers, familiarize themselves with campus resources, and take part in AU culture and traditions! 

Being First Gen at AU, we realize that holding the identity of a first-generation student is complex. First-generation students are academically skilled and contribute greatly to the campus community; it is the lack of critical cultural capital necessary to navigate the “hidden curriculum” of universities and colleges successfully that impact first-generation students adversely. Students with one (or more) parent(s) or guardian(s) that have completed a 4-year institution often have greater sources of support in understanding how to traverse the policies, procedures, jargon, and expectations of collegiate life. To open opportunities for additional support for students that are first-generation but do not fully meet the federal guidelines to qualify as a first-generation student, the Center for Diversity & Inclusion (CDI) has resources to aid in the success of first-generation students.

First-Generation students are more likely to exhibit the following traits:

  • Resilience 

  • Ingenuity 

  • Drive 

  • Dedication 

  • Passion

  • Strong Work Ethics 

  • Critical Thinking 

  • Problem Solving 

  • Independence 

  • Present-oriented instead of future-oriented 

What Does It Mean to Be a First-Generation Student?

First-generation (or first gen, for short) college students are students whose parents or guardians have not had the opportunity to complete a bachelor’s degree in the United States. Many students whose parents have degrees from outside of the U.S. also identify as first-gen. First-Gen Eagles —including first-gen faculty and staff—are a fundamental part of our campus and a strong and proud part of the AU family.

Am I a First-Generation college student?

There are a few different definitions of “first gen.” This section may help you to determine whether you’re a first gen student.

At American University, undergraduate students are considered first-generation college students if neither parent has completed a 4-year college or university degree.

At American University, the definition of a first-generation graduate student is the same as it is for undergraduate students. You are considered first-generation if neither parent has completed an undergraduate college degree.

If your parents took a few college classes or even completed community college, you will often be considered first-gen.

Yes. Being a first-gen student means that your parent(s) did not complete a 4-year college or university degree, regardless of other family member’s level of education. Older siblings and family members who attended college may be a great resource as you navigate your college journey!

AAA (Alpha Alpha Alpha) Eta Sigma, Est. 2023

Tri Alpha

Tri-Alpha, also known as Alpha Alpha Alpha, is a national honor society for first-generation students. Learn more about AU's Tri-Alpha chapter Eta Sigma.

Eta Sigma at AU

Center for First-Generation Student Success First Forward Institution

First Forward

Because of our commitment to first-gen students, AU was designated as a First Forward Institution by the Center for First-generation Student Success.

First-Gen Forward