First-Generation Students

First-Generation Students are resilient and motivated to forge the path to education.

Learn more about the scholarship Learn more about mentorship

Students talk casually while sitting in chairs.

First generation students are students whose parents, caregivers, or chosen family did not attend post secondary education. This group also includes international students who are the first in their families to attend college or university in Canada. First generation students are trailblazers, forging a new education path for themselves and for generations to come.

At UCalgary, first generation students can access a variety of supports to help them navigate their unique academic challenges and enhance their individual strengths. Find more details about how to access first generation supports below!

Academic Support

First Generation students can meet with our dedicated Academic Development Specialist for support with goal setting, learning and study skills, time management, and more.

Learn more about Academic Support

Wellbeing Support

First Generation Student programs offers wellbeing support appointments for first generation students. Students can meet with a wellbeing support advisor or attend an event to learn more about balancing academics, transition to university, and wellbeing resources.

Book a Wellbeing Appointment

Exploratory Advising

Making decisions about your academic career can be daunting, especially if you're not sure what options are available. The first generation team has two dedicated exploratory advisors available to help students meet their academic and career goals.

Learn more about exploratory advising

Mentorship

The transition to university is both exciting and stressful, but you don't have to take in on alone. Consider joining our First-Generation Mentorship program to connect with peers, learn about resources, and build your network.

First-Generation Mentorship

Funding your degree

Did you know that UCalgary offers a $2,500 award for eligible incoming first generation students?

Learn more about the award Learn more about funding opportunities

Dan Birch
Academic Advisor,

First-Generation Student Programs

Mariann Howell
Coordinator,

First-Generation Student Programs

Tori Keller
Wellbeing Advisor,

First-Generation Student Programs

Lisa Nguyen
Academic Advisor,

First-Generation Student Programs

Mary Ana De Leon
Academic Development Specialist

Equity-deserving Students

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As a first-in-family student, you don’t have a family member to show you the ways. However, you will quickly realize everyone in the university is probably just as overwhelmed as you are. Remember that you do not have to figure it out all by yourself and that help is one email or conversation away.

Aayushmathi Ashok

First Generation Science Student