How First-Generation Students Learn
Picture this: It’s the first day of college, and as you navigate the maze of unfamiliar buildings and decipher a syllabus filled with terms like “office hours” and “prerequisites,” a thought creeps in – “Am I supposed to know how to do this already?” If you’re a first-generation college student, the answer is often no.
First-generation students – those whose parents didn’t attend college – are stepping into an entirely new world, often without a roadmap. Many of our PowHERful scholars have seen for themselves the unique and unexpected challenges faced by first-generation students. Yes, they bring resilience, ambition, and fresh perspectives to the classroom – but how they manage these unforeseen hurdles will make the difference. Researchers are now paying attention to the obstacles that confront first-gen students, and learning how they adapt and, ultimately, triumph.
One of the biggest challenges first-generation students face is what educators call the “hidden curriculum” – the unspoken rules and expectations of college life. While students from college-educated families might grow up absorbing knowledge about office hours, networking, and academic planning from their parents, first-gen students often have to figure it out on their own.
Recent research highlights that many first-gen students don’t seek help from professors or advisors simply because they don’t realize they’re supposed to. They might not know that visiting office hours is encouraged or that asking for extensions, when truly needed, is a common practice rather than a sign of failure. “I learned the hard way that college isn’t like high school. Professors don’t reach out if you’re struggling – you have to approach them yourself and ask for help,” one PowHERful scholar told us. This gap in institutional know-how can make the learning process harder, but universities are beginning to address it. Many schools now offer first-year seminars or mentorship programs to demystify college expectations and help first-gen students navigate the system.
First-generation students tend to develop strong independent learning habits, often out of necessity. Many come from backgrounds where they had to figure things out for themselves, whether in helping younger siblings with homework or managing responsibilities beyond school. This self-reliance can be a double-edged sword: while it fosters resilience, it can also make students hesitant to ask for help when needed.
Studies have shown that first-gen students benefit significantly from collaborative learning environments. Group projects, peer study sessions, and mentorship programs help bridge knowledge gaps and provide a sense of belonging. When they engage in collaborative learning, first-gen students tend to perform better academically and feel more connected to their college experience.
As one of our scholars attests: “I’m used to doing things for myself. I’ve always hated group projects and collaboration sessions because the thought of having my grade – something I hold dear to my heart – left in the hands of others is scary. But I know how important this kind of exposure is, because you can’t build a career or business without learning how to work with others. Yes, it may be painful, but the experience will mold you into a better leader.”
Another critical factor affecting how first-gen students learn is financial stress. Many work part-time or even full-time jobs to support themselves and their families, leaving them with less time to study. The pressure to succeed academically while juggling financial responsibilities can lead to burnout, making it harder to retain information and stay engaged in coursework.
The PowHERful Foundation understands how central financial support is to our scholars’ success. “When I first enrolled in college, I got B’s and C’s. When PowHERful stepped in with financial help, I was able to take more time to study and actually engaged more in classes. Now I’m holding a straight A average!”
Some colleges address students’ financial challenges by providing emergency grants, financial literacy programs, and work-study opportunities that align with students’ career goals. Universities that acknowledge and alleviate financial strain create an environment where first-gen students can focus more on learning and less on just getting by.
Another key factor in first-gen students’ success is mindset. Research by psychologist Carol Dweck has shown that students who adopt a “growth mindset” – the belief that intelligence and abilities can be developed with effort – tend to perform better academically. For first-gen students, who may struggle with imposter syndrome (the feeling that they don’t belong or aren’t “college material”), fostering a growth mindset is crucial.
Colleges that promote resilience and normalize academic struggles help first-gen students persist. Programs that share stories of successful first-gen graduates, offer mentorship from faculty and provide spaces where students can discuss their experiences all contribute to a sense of belonging, which in turn improves learning outcomes.
Having professors, mentors, or even older students who have walked a similar path can make all the difference. First-gen students often find it easier to learn and engage when they see people like them in academic and leadership roles. Representation matters—not just for inspiration but for practical guidance on how to navigate college life.
Many universities are now highlighting faculty and staff who were first-gen students themselves, creating networks where students can learn from those who understand their experiences firsthand. These role models serve as a reminder that success is possible, even without a head start.
As awareness grows around the challenges first-generation students face, colleges have historically stepped up to provide better support systems. From first-gen orientation programs to learning communities designed specifically for these students, institutions have recognized that academic success isn't just about intelligence—it’s about access, support, and the right learning environment. Despite recent federal policy changes under the Trump administration that have led to increased scrutiny of DEI initiatives, many colleges remain committed to supporting first-generation students. The methods and extent of support may be evolving, however, in response to the changing political landscape.
PowHERful Foundation’s first-generation scholars have demonstrated grit, determination, and diverse perspectives as they pursue higher education. When given the right tools and resources, they don’t just keep up – they thrive. By continuing to adapt teaching methods, foster inclusive academic spaces, and make the hidden curriculum visible, educators ensure that first-generation students have every opportunity to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
To every PowHERful first-generation student who feels like they’re figuring it all out as they go, we want you to know you are not alone while you pave the way for those who will follow.