First Generation Students
First-generation students come from families where neither parent nor guardian has a four-year degree from a college or university.
First Generation Student Support
OSU is proud to be home to thousands of first-generation college students, faculty,
and staff. First generation students come from families where neither a parent nor
guardian has a four-year degree from a college or university. Many students whose
parents have degrees from outside of the US also identify as First Gen.
OSU is dedicated to supporting and serving anyone who identifies as First Generation.
First-Generation Students
20-25%
OSU First Generation Students
43%
of OSU first generation students are Pell Grant Eligible.
Compared to 19% of OSU continuing-generation students are Pell Grant Eligible.
180
First-year students participating in F1RST2GO
F1RST2GO
A year-long peer mentorship program to support first-generation students success.
F1RST2GO focuses on the pillars of academics, engagement, and well-being.
Coordinator of Student Support Programs
Matt Williams
Campus Life is dedicated to providing a supportive community for all as they experience
being an OSU student. We understand that college can be both exciting and challenging, especially for those
who are first-generation. Whether it’s figuring out where to go for help or even knowing when help may be available,
Campus Life is here for you. We aim to create a space where you can find the understanding, resources, and connections
you need to thrive during your academic journey.
For support as a first-gen student, schedule an appointment in your Student Portal.
(Select "Engagement", "Get Involved" and find virtual and in-person appointments.
National First-Gen Celebration Day
November 8
Celebrate First Gen Day with us!
First-Gen Day is celebrated annually to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 which created federal financial aid programs to fund students' educations.
OSU is a proud member of First Gen Forward. A national model for first-generation
student success.
Various OSU staff members that serve on the OSU First-Gen Forward Council with the
mission to help first-gen students to develop a sense of belonging, increase retention,
and highlight our campus supporters
In the News
Perspective is Protective: From First-Gen Student to Advocate and Researcher
OSU staff member, Lacy Quadrelli shares her experiences as a first-generation student has informed her research interests.OSU receives First- Gen Forward designation
In Spring 2022, the then Center for First-generation Student Success named OSU as a First-Gen Forward institution for its commitment to first-generation students.
From the Prairie to Paris: First-generation OSU students gain global perspective through study abroad program
The Retention Initiative for Student Excellence Program (RISE) took a group of predominately first-generation OSU students to Paris to learn how culture influences and interacts with industry.
Donate Today
Consider supporting first-generation students through the First Generation Student Support Fund.
Donate