UCalgary’s First-Generation Students Program changes lives

The University of Calgary’s First-Generation Students Program has become a transformative bridge to higher education for students who are the first in their families to pursue post-secondary studies.

Through scholarships and wrap-around supports including mentorship, academic guidance and community events, the program fosters a supportive environment, helping students navigate the complexities and opportunities of university life.

“I always wanted to go to a big school in a big city,” says program participant Ayasha Karcher, who moved to Calgary from Chetwynd, B.C., to enrol in the Werklund School of Education. “But coming here alone, without knowing anyone, was scary. My town is more than 10 hours away, and Calgary felt like a different world.”

Karcher’s experience of moving to a new city, far from family and familiar surroundings, mirrors the challenges many first-generation students face: navigating unfamiliar systems without the benefit of family experience or guidance.

Her journey to university was driven by her aspiration to pursue a career that required a post-secondary education. “Throughout elementary and high school, I wanted to do something that made a difference, which led me to teaching.”

Without family members who had attended university, she initially felt unsure about how to reach her goals. “I didn’t know where to start — what courses to take or how to plan for university.”

For Karcher, the First-Generation Students Program, which is part of UCalgary’s new Ahead of Tomorrow strategic plan, has been a vital resource, providing her with a mentor who offered guidance and friendship. “My mentor was a huge support, helping me figure out what I wanted to do and how to achieve it,” she says. “We’re still close friends today.”

In addition to mentorship, the program hosts social and networking events, helping students form connections that ease their transition into university life. Through volunteering at these events, she found herself honing new skills, particularly in public speaking — a skill she initially struggled with. “The program has helped me grow my confidence and even improve my public speaking, which I used to avoid," she says.

Karcher’s story highlights the added challenges that first-generation students often encounter. Unlike students whose parents have attended university, she had to rely on alternative sources for information and guidance. “I’ve learned to reach out to friends, academic advisors and mentors to fill those gaps in knowledge,” she says. Though difficult, this experience allowed her to build a unique perspective and make informed decisions.

From the perspective of Elke, Ayasha’s mother, watching her daughter embark on this journey has been both a source of pride and a personal challenge.

“I felt proud but nervous,” she says. “Letting her go so far was hard, especially since I couldn’t be there to support her in person.” Like many parents of first-generation students, Ayasha’s mother found it difficult to relate to the university experience. Yet, she takes comfort in knowing that her daughter is in a supportive environment. “I was relieved when she found the program,” Elke says. “Knowing she has someone to turn to when she has questions makes a difference.”

The program’s supportive environment extends beyond academics, creating a sense of belonging for students and their families. Reflecting on her visits to campus, Ayasha’s mother describes UCalgary as “impressive,” remarking on the campus’s atmosphere of knowledge and discovery. She feels reassured that her daughter is part of a community that values learning and personal growth.

This program reflects UCalgary’s commitment to increasing access to higher education for students from all backgrounds. By offering resources and guidance tailored to first-generation students, the program ensures they have the tools to succeed and thrive.

For Ayasha, the support from the program has been essential in building her confidence and resilience as she navigates university life. She encourages incoming first-generation students to take the initiative and seek out help: “The program is so welcoming, but you have to make the first move. Once you do, everyone is there to help guide you.”

This sentiment is echoed by Ayasha’s mother, who offers advice to other parents of first-generation students: “It’s hard to let go, but it’s worth it. Trust in the process and know your child is in good hands.”

For families who may feel hesitant or uncertain, the program’s holistic support provides reassurance and fosters a strong foundation for student success.

“As someone who started their own academic journey as a first-generation student, I am so proud to see the creation of the UCalgary First-Generation Students Program, which is opening doors to student flourishing that will enrich their lives and the future of our city, province and country,” says Dr. Malinda Smith, PhD, vice-provost and associate vice-president research (equity, diversity and inclusion).

“This visionary and future-focused program is committed to leaving no talent untapped. The university is opening doors, creating wrap-around supports and creating an enabling environment for everyone to pursue opportunities to excel. It is a two-way street. I am excited to see what this generation of students do with this opportunity and how they contribute to discovery, knowledge and understanding and how their ideas shape more inclusive futures that positions them, and us, ahead of tomorrow.”

As the program continues to grow, stories like Ayasha’s underscore its lasting positive impact. Ahead of Tomorrow envisions a future where access to higher education is broadened, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the chance to achieve their goals. For first-generation students like Ayasha, this initiative isn’t just about academic success; it’s about building confidence, gaining independence, and creating a lasting, supportive community.

To learn more about the program, visit the webpage.