Tips for First-Generation Student Success

June 30, 2025

Being the first person in your family to go to college is a big deal. You may feel proud, nervous, excited and unsure all at once. You may also have questions that feel hard to ask, especially if the people closest to you have not been through the college process before.

That does not mean you are behind. It means you are learning a new system. College has its own words, deadlines, offices, technology and expectations. At St. Louis Community College, you do not have to figure it all out by yourself.

This guide can help you understand what it means to be a first-generation student, where to find support and what steps can help you feel more confident during your first year.

What Is a First-Generation College Student?

A first-generation college student is usually someone whose parents or guardians did not complete a college degree. You may also identify with this experience if no one in your immediate family has helped you understand how college works.

Being first-generation can come with pressure, but it also shows strength. You are taking a step that may be new for your family and building a path for yourself.

Common First-Generation Student Questions

Many first-generation students have questions before and after they start college. You may wonder:

How do I register for classes?
How do I pay for college?
What is financial aid?
Who do I contact if I am confused?
How do I know which classes to take?
What if I need help with homework or studying?
How do I balance school, work and family responsibilities?

These are normal questions. Asking them early is one of the best things you can do. College is easier to navigate when you know where to go for answers.

Start With New Student Programs

STLCC’s new student programs can help you get connected before and during your first year. These programs are designed to help you learn what to do next, meet people and understand the tools you will use as a student.

Every campus has staff and peer mentors who can help answer questions. Peer mentors are current students who understand what it feels like to be new. They can help you find resources, learn college basics and feel more connected to STLCC.

New student programs can help you:

Ask questions about your next steps.
Learn how to use student tools and resources.
Meet people who can support you during your first year.
Find campus events, clubs and opportunities to get involved.

Complete Archer Orientation

After you apply to STLCC, you will receive information about Archer Orientation. Orientation is an important first step for new students. It helps you learn how to register for classes, use student tools and find support services.

During orientation, you may learn about Canvas, student email, advising, financial aid, campus resources and ways to get involved. It is also a good time to ask questions before classes begin.

Think of orientation as your introduction to how STLCC works. It can help you start your first semester with fewer surprises.

Know Who Can Help You

One of the biggest differences between high school and college is that students are often expected to speak up when they need help. That can feel uncomfortable at first, but you do not have to wait until something goes wrong.

Here are a few places to start:

Enrollment services: Enrollment specialists can help with admissions, registration, student records and general questions about getting started.
Student Advocacy & Resource Center (SARC): The SARC team can help connect you with basic needs support, community resources and help for challenges that may affect your success in college.
Academic advising: Student success advisors can help you choose classes, understand your program requirements and make a plan for graduation or transfer.
Academic support and tutoring: The academic success and tutoring centers can help with studying, writing, math, test preparation and time management.

Build Good Habits Early

Your first semester is a good time to build simple habits that make college feel more manageable. You do not have to do everything perfectly. Small steps, repeated often, can make a big difference.

Check your STLCC email often.
Use a calendar to track deadlines, assignments and exams.
Log in to Canvas regularly.
Read your class syllabus and save important dates.
Ask for help before you feel completely lost.
Set aside study time each week, even when nothing is due the next day.

College classes can move quickly. Staying organized can help you avoid missed deadlines and last-minute stress.

First-Semester Tip

During the first week of class, find one important contact for each class. This could be your instructor, a classmate, a tutor or an advisor. Knowing who to ask for help can make the semester feel less overwhelming.

Connect With Other Students

College can feel lonely if you only go to class and leave. Getting connected can help you feel more comfortable and supported.

STLCC offers student clubs and organizations where you can meet people with similar interests. You can also attend First Year Experience events, campus activities and first-generation student celebrations.

Start small with one event, one club meeting or one conversation with a classmate. Even one connection can help campus feel more familiar.

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Your well-being matters. Getting support can help you manage stress and stay on track.

STLCC offers counseling services and wellness resources to help students care for their mental and emotional well-being. You can reach out if you are dealing with stress, anxiety, family pressure, motivation, grief or other personal challenges.

Taking care of yourself is part of being successful in college.

Think About Your Future Career

You do not need to know your exact career plan right away, but it helps to start exploring. Career advisors can help you learn about jobs, salaries, internships, resumes and interview skills.

Career advisors can also help you understand how your classes connect to the kind of work you may want to do. This can make college feel more purposeful and help you make informed choices about your program.

Explore Your Academic Path

If you are still deciding what to study, that is okay. STLCC offers many academic pathways that can help you compare programs, career options and transfer opportunities.

You can also visit the future students page to learn more about getting started at STLCC.

You Belong at STLCC

Being a first-generation student is something to be proud of. You are learning how to navigate college, ask questions, use resources and build a future that matters to you.

You may not know every step yet. That is okay. College is not about having everything figured out before you begin. It is about learning as you go and using the support around you.

At STLCC, you belong here. We are ready to help you take the next step.