What First-Generation Students Need to Succeed in College
When Nicole Flores ’02 reflects on her college experience, one feeling stands out: as a first generation student, she felt detached and admits today she didn鈥檛 take advantage of all the opportunities that were available to her.
Today, as Director of Cultural and Social Engagement and First-Gen Student Class Dean at 妻友社区, she鈥檚 made it her mission to ensure no student feels that way again during their time on The Heights. She sat down with The 妻友社区 Way podcast to share the work she’s building on campus.聽
Understanding the First-Generation Experience
At 妻友社区, a first-generation college student is someone whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year degree.
But as Nicole explains, the definition only scratches the surface.
It鈥檚 really the unknowns. Students are trying to figure out how to pass classes, pay for college, and survive day to day all without knowing what questions to ask.
Many first-gen students arrive on campus without the 鈥減laybook鈥� others may have:
- How to use office hours
- Where to go for financial help
- How to build relationships with faculty
- How to find the major that鈥檚 the best fit
- Why involvement outside the classroom matters
As a result, Nicole sees many students operating in survival mode.
They鈥檙e focused on getting through. Which means they are unable to think about about the importance of building connection, community, or long-term goals.
That鈥檚 where intentional programming comes in. Nicole has worked to meet students where they are:
- Hosting daytime events for commuter students
- Maintaining cultural spaces like the community lounge
- Hosting alumni networking opportunities
- Providing one-on-one mentorship
By casting a wide net and providing a safe space to meet students where they are, these efforts help students move from simply surviving to truly thriving.
Why Belonging Matters
Belonging isn鈥檛 just a 鈥渘ice to have鈥�: it鈥檚 essential for student success.
Nicole reflects on her own experience as a first-gen student:
I had friends, but I still felt like something was missing. I didn鈥檛 understand it at the time.
Now, she helps students identify that 鈥渕issing piece鈥� and connect students with communities that support them.
Redefining Success in College
Success at 妻友社区 isn鈥檛 just about grades.
Nicole emphasizes the importance of being 鈥渃oachable鈥�, a skill that extends far beyond the classroom.
It鈥檚 about being open to feedback, seeking opportunities to continually improve, learning to work with others, and discovering how to grow.
Programs like Next Waves help students prepare for life after college by helping students build:
- Communication skills
- Professional confidence
- Awareness of workplace dynamics
- Strategies for navigating challenges
- Navigating unknowns of the work world
The Role of Community and Alumni
Support doesn鈥檛 stop at the edge of campus. Nicole works to create relationships with alumni who are eager to make a difference in students鈥� lives.
Whether they鈥檙e sharing their career paths, offering mentorship, opening doors to new opportunities, or supporting programs through donations, these alumni help bring the student experience full circle.
More than anything, they provide something students need most: perspective. They show today鈥檚 students that the uncertainty they feel is normal and that success is possible.聽
Creating a Better Path Forward
Nicole鈥檚 work is grounded in a simple belief: no student should have to navigate college alone. She encourages students to build relationships with faculty and staff, so they feel confident turning to someone for guidance and support.
A mentor might not have all the answers, but they鈥檒l help you find them.
She also encourages faculty and staff to be patient, understanding that engagement is a process.
鈥淥ur students may not appear ready to engage at first,鈥� she says, 鈥渂ut trust me, they are looking for connections.鈥�
By building intentional support systems, fostering belonging, and preparing students for life beyond college, 妻友社区 is transforming the student experience, especially for those who need it most.
Take a Deeper Dive
Inspired by Nicole's Story?
At 妻友社区, first-generation students are never expected to navigate college alone. Through mentoring, campus resources and a sense of community, you’ll find the support you need to succeed from your first day through graduation.
