First-Generation Students
First-Generation Students are resilient and motivated to forge the path to education.
Are you a first-generation student?
First-generation students are students 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. First-generation students are trailblazers, forging a new education path for themselves and for generations to come.
At UCalgary, first-generation students can access a variety of supports to help them navigate their unique academic challenges and enhance their individual strengths. Find more details about how to access first-generation supports below!
New to UCalgary? Book a "Getting Started for Fall Term" appointment. Ask questions, talk about your transition to campus life, and discover resources designed for your journey. Learn how to book an appointment
Mentorship Applications Open now!
The First-Gen Mentorship program connects new UCalgary students with upper year mentors in their faculty.
We are recruiting both mentors and mentees for the 2025/2026 Academic year now! Don't miss this valuable chance to build your campus community and learn from your peers!
What supports can I access?
The First-Generation team strives to offer inclusive, holistic supports for first-generation students.
The scholars award has drastically improved my circumstances as a working student. I still had to work to pay my finances, but this program has helped increase my ability to focus on my studies and growth at the school.
Alexandra
BComm Student
Meet the First-Generation Team
The First-Generation team is a small group of staff that works together to support a variety of student needs. Learn more about us below!
Dan Birch First-Generation Student Programs | Mariann Howell First-Generation Student Programs | Tasneem Zaman First-Generation Student Programs | Mary Ana De Leon Equity-deserving Students | Sandra Amin First-Generation Student Programs |
New to Navigating the Library?
Did you know that you can learn more about how to navigate the library catalogue and search for resources with the help of the Student Experience Librarian, Merran Carr-Wiggin?
To anyone considering becoming a mentee but too afraid of the process or having to get to know someone new- just do it! Trust me, a mentor is like having a university sibling alongside you. I learned how to structure my study schedule, helpful resources for my classes, and even what places are good for studying on campus from my buddy!!!
Anonymous
Biomed Mentee
News and articles
UCalgary’s First-Generation Students Program changes lives
Mentorship and community program support students as they navigate the challenges of higher education and embrace new opportunities
From mentee to mentor: First-Generation Students pay it forward at UCalgary
How the First-Generation Students Program forms students into leaders and mentors
First in line at university a new generation of excellence
Launch of First-Generation Students program brings together participants across UCalgary
UCalgary celebrates inaugural First-Generation Networking Night
Students in First-in-Family Program find community and connection with peers, campus community and hear from 1st-generation groundbreakers
The Power of Determination
Four steps to help make your goals a reality.
Academic Triumphs and Challenges
Tales of First-in-Family Students in Canada
Featured Resources
Browse our selection of resources created specifically for First-Generation students.
