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Supporting and encouraging first gen students to reach their academic and personal goals

Did you know that nearly 40% of âùºìÔº's students are first generation students? What’s more surprising is that âùºìÔº has been able to help those students achieve their education dreams year after year. In fact, âùºìÔº has increased its graduation rates by 174% since 2009. How? âùºìÔº created custom programs and services to make sure first gen students have what they need to make the first year at college a successful one.

All the tools to win

With unique and custom workshops, a handbook, and additional academic support – âùºìÔº provides first gen students withÌýall of the tools to tackle their first year of college. We offer several free resources and services including:Ìý

• ACES Learning Community Classes – A first-year success course
• Peer mentoring
• Academic coaching
• Study skills & time management training
• Workshops & speakers
• Internship referrals

How do first gen students get plugged in?Ìý

âùºìÔº's advisorsÌýenroll first generation studentsÌýin anÌýACES class, a first-year success course. However, all first gen students should plan to take advantage of:Ìý

1. Student SuccessÌýHandbook –ÌýOnce enrolled, first generation students get access to a to help navigate everything from signing up for your first classes to determining how to best study for your upcoming courses.
2. Peer mentoring –ÌýEach first generation student can sign up to participate in a peer mentoring program – an opportunity to learn the ropes from a more senior student.
3. An assigned advisor –ÌýEvery student at âùºìÔºÌýgets a specific advisor to help navigate their college journey and their course work.

Key to success: Peer mentoring

One of the most successful programs âùºìÔº offers to first gen students is peer mentoring. This program pairs first gen students with upper-level students. We align all participants based on their major, valuesÌýand interests. We have diverse participants, featuring students from many different backgrounds, cultures, majors, and experiences.Ìý

The benefit to first gen students? Peer mentors can help students navigate the college experience, answer questions and help them reach their personal and educational goals.

Peer-mentoring really works. âùºìÔº introduced peer mentoring for first gen students in January 2020, 91% of participants returned for their second year of college.Ìý

Sign-up for the peer mentoring programÌýat firstgen@davenport.edu.

What are the keys to your success in the first year? Successful students become STARS in college:

1. Study –ÌýIncorporate strong learning strategies
2. Time (value) management –ÌýLearn to set goals
3. Accountability – Own your education
4. Relationships – Connect with faculty, staff and other students
5. Serve others – Use your gifts to help others