I am first gen

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

Did you know that 52% of Davenport's first-year students are first generation students? What’s more surprising is that Davenport has been able to help those students achieve their education dreams year after year. In fact, Davenport has increased its graduation rates by 174% since 2009. How? Davenport 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 – Davenport provides first gen students with all of the tools to tackle their first year of college. We offer several free resources and services including: 

• 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? 

Davenport's advisors enroll first generation students in an ACES class, a first-year success course. However, all first gen students should plan to take advantage of: 

1. Student Success Handbook – Once enrolled, first generation students get access to a resource guide to help navigate everything from signing up for your first classes to determining how to best study for your upcoming courses.
2. Peer mentoring – Each 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 – Every student at Davenport gets a specific advisor to help navigate their college journey and their course work.
4. Tri-Alpha Honor Society – Join the brand new Davenport chapter of Tri-Alpha. Tri-Alpha is a national honor society that specifically recognizes and celebrates the academic achievements of first generation college students. It aims to promote leadership and support networks within this student population. 

Key to success: Peer mentoring

One of the most successful programs Davenport 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, values and interests. We have diverse participants, featuring students from many different backgrounds, cultures, majors, and experiences. 

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. Davenport introduced peer mentoring for first gen students in January 2020, 91% of participants returned for their second year of college. 

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

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

1. Study – Incorporate strong learning strategies
2. Time (value) management – Learn 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

^*90% of mentees from Fall 2023 retained through Fall 2024