Resources for First Generation Students

Career development is never linear, it’s a continuous cycle! The best way to continue to develop these skills is by getting connected to different career services and professionals. Here are a few ideas for how to get started! 

  • Set up your Handshake account to explore current job and internship opportunities, discover virtual and in-person career events, and schedule an appointment with a CDI coach.  
  • Work with a CDI coach to incorporate your experiences on your resume (e.g. your coursework, the class projects you have completed, student organizations, volunteer experience) 
  • Learn through experience by discovering opportunities for hands on learning with a volunteer or internship experience. 
  • Immerse yourself in experiential learning by seeking out hands-on opportunities through volunteering or internships. 
  • Build your network through campus involvement, engaging with professors during office hours, attending CDI networking events, and interacting with alumni during events on campus 

 

As a first-generation student, you have access to numerous resources designed to support your career. Schedule an appointment with the career center in Handshake for additional guidance and support! 

 

Diversity Programs for Students or New Grads from Underrepresented Backgrounds — A compilation from Gorick NG, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, a career adviser at Harvard, and a faculty member at UC Berkeley. 

I’m First! — An online community providing first-generation college students with inspiration, information, and support on the road to and through college. 

Career Tips for First-Generation Graduate Students — An article written by a first-generation student for firsthand tips on how to navigate your career journey. 

First-Generation Civil Rights Fellowship Program — The First-Generation Civil Rights Fellowship Program is a paid summer program for first generation undergraduate students who are interested in a career in social justice.   

NACE — National Association of Colleges and Employers first generation student resources. 

America Needs You —  Through American Needs You (ANY), first-generation college students can become ANY Fellows by joining the fellows program, which provides career tools and future preparation. Alternatively, they can join the FirstGenU Career Institute to access an online curriculum and virtual networking opportunities. 

Career Spring — A network that provides career resources, networking opportunities, and job placement assistance to first generation students. 

Rise First — An online platform with over 1,200 resources to empower first generation students and guide them towards success.