First-Generation Students
What is a first-generation student?
A first-generation student is a college student who is the first in their family to graduate from college (i.e., one or more parent does not have a four-year college degree).
First-generation students at the U of A
First-generation students are something to celebrate!
As a first-generation student, you and your family might have more questions about navigating the university atmosphere, which includes policies, jargon, and specific expectations which might be intimidating and overwhelming at first. The Student Success Center is here to support you from enrollment through graduation.
Programs to Support You:
360 Program
The 360 Program is a centerpiece initiative of the Student Success Center that offers one-on-one support for students’ academic transition, financial planning, social engagement and wellness during their time at the U of A.
Academic Advising
Academic advising services are offered differently across campus to meet the unique needs of the different colleges and their students.
Academic Support
The Student Success Center offers several opportunities for you to get the academic support you need, with flexibility tailored to your preferences.
Career Development Center
The career center provides many services including career counseling, resume and cover letter reviews, mock job and medical interviews, job search assistance, career fairs, company information sessions, career assessments, Skype interview room reservations, career exploration classes, graduate school counseling, CTR coaching, selecting a major assistance, and LinkedIn profile reviews and photo sessions.
Center for Multicultural & Diversity Education
The Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education (MC) provides academic, cultural and social programs intended to promote inclusiveness, foster achievement and assist in the development and advancement of a diverse student body.
New Student & Family Programs
The Office of New Student & Family Programs connects students and their families to the University of Arkansas campus and community by providing diverse, innovative programs and resources that support a successful collegiate experience.
Office of Student Activities
The Office of Student Activities provides an environment for involvement, empowerment, and collaboration through student organizations, programmatic experiences, and shared governance.
Office of Financial Aid
The Office of Financial Aid assists students with financial-related questions and issues and college funding opportunities.
Volunteer Action Center
The Volunteer Action Center (VAC) is a student led organization that connects University of Arkansas students to volunteering opportunities in the northwest Arkansas.
New Student? No Problem.

New Student and Family Programs has a new podcast for new and current students! We will be discussing the ins and outs of being a new student – things to do, tips and tricks, insider scoops and more. Follow @uarkwelcomeweeks so you can be the first to know when the next episode drops!
Episode 3: First-Generation College Students - (Nov. 2, 2020) - 35 minutes
In this episode, we get to celebrate First Generation College Students at the University of Arkansas. We chatted with four different first-generation students as they shared tips, tricks, resources and their stories of what their journeys look like as a college student. Whether you are a high school senior scared of making your transition, a seasoned college junior needing a little extra help, or simply a first-generation student ally, this podcast has something for you.
Celebrate First-Gen Students
Download our First-Gen Zoom & Computer Backgrounds!
You may need to select "Mirror My Video" in Zoom in case the text is backwards on
your screen.
For First-Generation Students
Download "Proud First-Generation Razorback"
Download "Proud First-Generation College Student - Old Main"
For First-Generation Supporters
Download "Supporter of First-Generation Razorbacks"
Download "I Support First-Generation College Students - Old Main"
Download "I Support First-Generation College Students - Hogs"