College graduation is an attainable, yet challenging feat. There are hosts of distractions that can be obstacles on the road to graduation—newfound responsibilities and independence, academic rigor, homesickness, and financing the education to name a few. As a first-generation or underserved student, the challenges only grow.
This is why it is integral to find a college campus that will become your second home, offering a nurturing, caring and supportive environment conducive to college success. Students should pay close attention to campus climate and community when choosing a college. Don’t put yourself on a campus so large you’ll get lost or one that lacks community because it is largely a commuter school. Seek out a college where you can be a big fish in a small pond and engage in campus life and academics.
Look for the following support networks when considering a college:
College Prep: Does the college offer an extensive preparation or orientation program specially geared toward first-generation or underserved students? Such programs offer the opportunity to meet students, staff and faculty, familiarize students with the campus, and provide valuable tools and resources for college success. Some of the most successful programs are those that invite students to campus for an extended period of time during the summer before freshman year.
Academic Advising: Make sure that the college’s academic advising program is active and helpful. Students deserve an involved academic mentor that can provide guidance in course selection and other areas, and can be a resource to call on if one needs help or has a problem.
Classes/Faculty: Smaller colleges that offer small class sizes will help students be successful in the classroom. Small classes engage students with the course material and allow close relationships with professors. Professors should be more than instructors; they should be mentors and friends willing to offer the extra time and effort to help students succeed.
Financial Aid Office: Paying the bills is also a key element in college success. Make sure the college’s financial aid office is efficient and approachable. Some offices, especially at larger schools, are often overextended and cannot offer the necessary individual attention.
