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What you need to know as a first-generation student in college

Learn how Rider supports every first-generation student with academic resources, financial guidance, and career preparation. Explore your next steps and contact us today.

Keyword(s): first-generation student

Are you a first-generation student? The most common definition is a person who is the first in their immediate family to attend college, or someone whose parents have not earned a four-year degree. While your situation may be unique within your family, you are not alone.

There are 8.2 million in the United States, according to recent FirstGen Forward data. That equals 54 percent of all undergraduates. Rider is a FirstGen Forward Institution committed to improving student experiences and outcomes.

For first-generation students, college can mean navigating unfamiliar systems, but you don't have to do it alone. From day one, our students are connected with the guidance and resources they need to stay on track toward graduation.

What to Know About First-Generation College Life

At Rider, nearly a third of our first-year students represent the first generation in their family to attend college. That number is something the Rider community takes pride in.

First-generation students come to Rider by many different paths. Some enroll right after high school as first-year college students, while others join the University through our transfer student options, where previously earned credits may count toward their degree.

Some arrive later in life as continuing education students, pursuing a bachelor's degree while balancing work and other responsibilities. Flexible options can help make continued progress possible.

Rider also welcome veterans and military students using their military benefits to pursue a degree. Our staff can help students understand how those benefits fit into their academic plans and connect their experience in the military with their goals at Rider.

No matter how you arrive, there are people and resources on campus to help you get through the details and get you closer to your goal of earning a college degree.

Student Support From Day One

Across campus, there are wide-ranging academic and social support resources available to students. Each resource is designed to help students succeed at every stage of their academic journey.

The Rider Academic Success Center provides free tutoring and supplemental instruction. Tutors are available for nearly every subject, incorporating group sessions add guided practice.

The Educational Opportunity Program also provides academic and financial support to first-generation, under-resourced, and historically underrepresented students.

Our Student Counseling Center services include individual and group counseling. Preventive services support mental well-being. Asking for help early is a college skill.

Like all students, we also encourage first-generation students to explore and join many available campus organizations. Options range from cultural and professional groups to service-based organizations. Regular involvement can build real connections.

Programs That Support Graduate School Goals

Rider participates in the TRIO program for graduate school preparation, helping eligible undergraduates plan beyond a bachelor's degree.

The McNair Scholars Program aims to increase doctoral degree attainment among primarily first-generation students and underrepresented groups. It prepares students through:

• Research training
• Mentoring
• Instruction
• Other scholarly activity

Students learn how research works. Graduate school expectations become clearer.

Helpful Tips About Rules and Records

College policies affect grades and timing. Learning the rules gives you more control.

Use the Syllabus as a Course Guide

A syllabus explains grading and due dates. Put dates on one calendar and check it daily.

Check Your Degree Audit Each Term

A degree audit shows credits and requirements. Review it with an adviser before registration.

Learn Deadlines Before You Need Them

Add, drop, and withdrawal dates have different results. A deadline can affect both your transcript and your bill.

Build a Complete College Budget

Tuition is only one cost. Books and transportation change the total.

Complete the for the correct school year. It helps determine eligibility for grants and federal loans. State deadlines may come first.

If family income drops, ask about a special circumstance review. Keep proof together. Our guide to paying for college costs explains more planning options.

Compare the amount you must repay, not only the total aid. Grants usually do not require repayment, while loans do. Know what each aid dollar means.

Compare College Support Before You Enroll

The best colleges for first-generation students make help easy to find. Ask who advises students and how tutoring works.

The federal College Navigator comparison tool shows costs and graduation rates. Compare net price with listed tuition. Net price accounts for grants and scholarships.

Transfer students should request a written credit review. Schools apply credits differently. Our article on helpful transfer student benefits explains Rider's support.

Turn College Work Into Career Evidence

Employers want proof that you can apply what you've learned to the real world. Be sure to save strong work and record your results.

Build Experience Before Senior Year

Internships and projects build useful skills. Rider's guide to preparing for growing careers connects study with work.

Ask for References With Context

Give a professor time to write a reference. Share the role and relevant work.

Track Skills and Results

Record the tools you used after each project. Keep proof of what you can do.

Beginning Your Journey at Rider

Learn how Rider lifts student barriers for first-generation students. Review useful services. Write down your questions.

You can take a Rider campus tour to see the setting. Find study spaces. Ask about support offices.