Illustration of a person sitting on a stack of books against a red background with a striped pattern.

First-in-Family

Support and advising for students who are the first in their families to attend university

Apply to be a Mentor

As a volunteer mentor, you'll help create a positive and enriching environment for new students who are the first in their families to attend university. You can provide much-needed guidance, connection and confidence as an upper-year student with more experience and insight into campus life.

In addition to supporting fellow students’ growth, you'll receive valuable leadership training and work experience, while making enriching personal connections along the way.

View the application details Apply to be a peer mentor

Connect with a Mentor

Transitioning from high school to university, or adjusting to a new environment, can be overwhelming for anyone, but for first-in-family students, it can present even greater challenges. While first-in-family students bring an incredible sense of resilience, determination, and vision for earning their degrees, pioneering their path without or with minimal family support can be isolating and difficult.

With a mentor's help, first-in-family students can gain the confidence and knowledge they need to succeed and thrive in their academic journey. We welcome applicants from all faculties.

View Mentee Description Request a Mentor

We are hosting some information sessions to give you an overview of the First-in-Family Mentorship program, how it works, benefits of being a Peer Mentor, and how to apply.

Wednesday, May 17 at 12pm
- Register for this Online Session
Tuesday, Jun 13 at 12pm
- Register for this Online Session

Post-secondary studies are an exciting and extraordinary milestone. For students who don't have parents or family members who have previously attended university, having some guidance from someone who has been there before can be especially helpful.

First in Family programming provides these students access to a community of peers, as well as contextualized academic advising, resources and events. These supports can not only aid in their transition to university life, but also help them succeed throughout their post-secondary journey.

Questions?

Reach out to:

Tram Nguyen

tram.nguyen4@ucalgary.ca

First-in-Family

Apply to be a Mentor

Connect with a Mentor

Mentor Program Info Sessions

Supporting students who are the first in their families to attend university

Questions?

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