First Generation Students
First generation means that neither of your parents have been to university and got a degree. You count as being first generation to go to university even if the following people have gone to university: your foster parents, your care workers, your brother or sister, your biological parents (if you're adopted), or a parent with whom you’ve had no contact during your secondary and post-16 education.
Being a first generation student can potentially influence career vision, networking opportunities and access to opportunities and increased support can help to level the playing field. Below are some resources and information which may be useful:
- Podcast:
This podcast is full of great insights into the student experience, what support first generation students may require and how first generation students can empower themselves to get ahead.
Podcast with Charlie Ball, Head of Higher Education Intelligence at JISC, Professor Lee Elliott Major, Professor of Social Mobility at University of Exeter, Peter Riley, Head of Widening Participation at Manchester Metropolitan University and Jessica Boxall first generation student at University of Southampton.
- Research into the challenges faced by first generation University Students