About Us
To be a first-generation college student (or "first-gen") means that neither of your
parents/guardians ever attained a four-year college degree. Because this definition
varies at times and can be relatively vague, KSU allows its students to identify themselves
as first-gen.
Regardless, there are many dedicated resources available to first-gen students at
KSU, and this site is meant to showcase all of these - whether it's dedicated programming,
involvement opportunities, housing options, or anything else. There are plenty of
opportunities and resources out there for our first-gen students to take advantage
of! The links below will direct you out to some of these, providing first a short
description of what purpose each entity serves.
Coca-Cola Scholars
The Coca-Cola First Generation and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
(STEM) Scholars program (Coca-Cola Scholars Program) is a scholarship program designed
to provide financial assistance and student support services to a select group of
first-generation students. This program does have limitations, so be sure to read
through the details on their site.
Cultural & Community Centers (CCC)
Located within the Division of Student Affairs, CCC serves as home to a vibrant array
of programs and services that focus on academic enrichment, campus and community engagement,
and cultural and identity exploration for all KSU students. CCC is in the process
of creating dedicated resources for first-gen students.
First-Gen Owls Student Organization (FGO)
FGO is a registered student organization (RSO) at KSU, meaning that it is run by current
students through Student Life. It aims to increase the success rates and sense of
community for members across the board and ensure that all students they work with
excel during their college careers.
Learning Communities (LC)
An LC consists of 20-25 first-semester students who co-enroll in two or more courses
that are linked together with a common theme (here, being first-gen). Courses are
taught by faculty dedicated to working together to help KSU’s newest students achieve
academic success and a sense of belonging at the university.
Living-Learning Communities (LLC)
LLCs at KSU establish a greater connection and sense of engagement in the on-campus
housing experience. The first-gen program is developed to provide a supportive environment
for these students to engage with the campus community and their peers while they
learn how to navigate the college experience.
