First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens! This week, we continue to talk about this month’s theme, Supporting First Gens! We all need a little bit of extra support right now, so I am doing all I can to bring your attention to the right resources that are here for you, as a first gen. As we continue to share these resources with you, we are so excited to chat with Dr. Stephanie Bannister, Vice President of First Gen Forward Network. First Gen Forward, formally known as The Center for First Generation Student Success, is an organization dedicated to advancing the success of first-generation college students. If you haven’t listened yet, trust me, this is one episode you don’t want to miss!
Dr. Bannister talks about how higher education systems were not originally designed for the diverse students they serve today. First gens face unique obstacles, including navigating college with limited support networks and institutional barriers that can hold back their success. Dr. Bannister also shared how there’s a 29% completion gap between first gen and continuing gen students. This is why organizations like First Gen Forward are so important. They advocate for systemic change and provide resources to help institutions better support students like us.
Supporting First Gens
First Gen Forward has been a source of knowledge and support for the first-gen community. They offer professional development, research, and a network of over 400 institutions committed to improving first gen student success. Through programs, workshops, and advocacy efforts, they work alongside colleges and universities to ensure that students don’t just enroll, but stay the course and graduate.
One of the most exciting initiatives they lead is National First-Generation Student Celebration Day, which has grown from a single day of recognition into a movement lasting an entire week. They also release important research, including recent reports on the first-gen experience post-COVID and how institutions can close the equity gap.
Beyond academic support, we also discuss the vital role mental health plays in student success. First gen students often struggle with imposter syndrome, anxiety, and the pressure of being the trailblazer in their families. Normalizing these conversations and seeking help when needed is crucial. As I always emphasize, success is not just about getting the degree, it’s about thriving while doing so.
If you’re a student, educator, or higher ed professional, check out First Gen Forward’s website and social media for invaluable resources. And as always, let’s continue to uplift and empower each other on this journey, and remember, I am always in your corner! Check out more information about First Gen Forward here: https://www.firstgenforward.org/
The First Gen Madrina/The Social Work Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to your needs.
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
Also, in case you have missed it, I recently announced a new branch of The First Gen Madrina called The Social Work Madrina. The Social Work Madrina will bring intentional support to social workers and more programming on mental health. Within TSWM, you will find The Madrina Network: A Community for Social Workers!
The community will be kicking off in March, just in time for National Social Work Month! Our community deserves more support, guidance and resources.
Soooooo are you ready? Here are some highlights of the community!
Monthly zoom calls to discuss the successes, challenges and needs of the social work community.
Opportunity to network with fellow social workers from all over the U.S!
Monthly workshops with different social work-related themes.
Optional coaching time with me for additional support!
The next cohort applications open in May! Check out thefirstgenmadrina.com/themadrinanetwork for more information soon!
¡Hasta pronto!
