First-Generation Mentorship

Support and advising for students who are the first generation in their families to attend university

Apply to be a Mentor

A groupof five students works together around a computer.

Post-secondary studies are an exciting and extraordinary milestone. For students who don't have parents or family members who have previously attended university, having guidance from someone who has been there before can be especially helpful.

First-Generation mentorship provides students access to a community of peers, as well as contextualized academic advising, resources, and events. These supports can not only aid in their transition to university life, but also help them succeed throughout their post-secondary journey.

Become a Mentor

Mentors make a significant impact on the lives of their fellow students by offering guidance and sharing their experiences with first year students.

You can learn more about becoming a mentor by accessing the Mentor Role Description.

Apply to become a Mentor

Become a Mentee

The transition to university is both exciting and stressful. By connecting with a mentor, you have the opportunity to learn from the experiences of an upper year student in your program.

You can learn more about about becoming a mentee through the Mentee Role Description.

Become a Mentor Leader

As a mentor leader, you will have the opportunty to develop valuable communication, leadership, and facilitation skills. This opportunity is open for returning mentors an upper year students with previous student leadership experience.

Learn More about becoming a Mentor Leader

What does it mean to be a Mentee?

Mentees connect with upper year students for guidance, support, and advice. With the support of the mentoring community, mentees get a head start in building their on-campus networks and have a friendly face to check in with when questions or challenges arise.

Watch the Mentee overview video

What does it mean to be a Mentor?

Mentors pass their own insights and experience along to the next generation of UCalgary students while building valuable leadership and facilitation skills.

This flexible volunteering opportunty is a great way to add to your campus experience!

Watch the Mentor Overview Video

Mentorship Events

Wondering what it looks like to be involved in the First-Generation community? Check out our gallery!

A smiling student works on an art project

Two students stand victoriously next to a jenga tower

Two students work on a scrapbooking activity

A group of students work on a collaborative art piece

A group of students decorate First Gen Buttons.

Two mentors pose with certificates and thank you cards.

Group photo of First-in-Family Mentorship students.

Six students pose with a drawing on a piece of poster paper.

Students work together on a group activity.

A group of students pose around a posterboard with a drawing on it.

A group of students participates in an icebreaker activity.

Two students link arms while participating in an activity.

A group of students wave and pose for the camera.

A large group of students listening to instructions.

Panelists answer questions in a discussion

Students participate in roundtable networking

Students have a conversation around a table.

Students and staff talk while seated around a table.

First Generation panelists responding to a question

Students Participate in Networking Discussion

A student watches another student play a cup game.

Two students pose in a festive photo booth.

Students sit at tables watching a speak at the front of the classroom.

Mentors support and navigate

I decided to participate in the mentorship program because I wanted a guiding hand to navigate my first year. One memorable interaction was when my mentors patiently listened to my concerns and provided practical advice, instantly easing my worries. To anyone considering becoming a mentee or mentor, I'd say go for it - it was one of the best decisions I made. Having someone supportive to talk to and help navigate this new environment made all the difference.

Imandi Attanayake, Law and Society Mentee

News and articles

From mentee to mentor: First-Generation Students pay it forward at UCalgary

How the First-Generation Students Program forms students into leaders and mentors

First in line at university a new generation of excellence

Launch of First-Generation Students program brings together participants across UCalgary

UCalgary celebrates inaugural First-Generation Networking Night

Students in First-in-Family Program find community and connection with peers, campus community and hear from 1st-generation groundbreakers

The Power of Determination

Four steps to help make your goals a reality.

Academic Triumphs and Challenges

Tales of First-in-Family Students in Canada

Food Insecurity and Campus Resources

A Guide for UCalgary Students

Mentors build connection

I decided to participate in the program as I wanted to find a meaningful way to get involved on campus. The First-in-Family program exceeded my expectations at the amount of effort, love and care that goes into fostering a sense of community. I have found such a strong sense of belonging upon mentoring for this program, and have found so much fulfillment in my mentor-mentee relationship. I am grateful for everything this program has taught me about leadership and confidence, and I will carry it with me in all my future pursuits!

Anonymous Mentor, Health Sciences

Mary Ana De Leon

Academic Development Specialist,

Equity-deserving Students

mary.deleonbacallao@ucalgary.ca

Mariann Howell

Coordinator, First-Generation Student Programs

mhhowell@ucalgary.ca

First-Generation Programs

Academic support, exploratory advising, wellbeing resources, and more!

Learn more about First-Generation Student Programs