"Welcome! Prepare to meet diverse students, faculty, and staff at FLC! Many of us, like you, were the first in our families to go to college, so we truly know how important it is to connect with you and for you to connect with us. There are many opportunities on campus, so please get involved. You will find that everyone and anyone will want to connect and learn from you as well!"
First-generation college students are the first in their families to graduate from a four-year institution. Be proud of your distinction!
46 % of FLC students are first-gen. And ALL of our executive leadership are first-gen, too! From your application to graduation and beyond, we have people and programs ready to support your journey to become the first in your family to hold a bachelor degree diploma.
Figuring out how to apply and learning all the new higher ed terminology can be overwhelming. Our dedicated Admission Counselors are here to help you with the process.
Get help with your application to FLC
First-gen students got $9 million in scholarships and aid for the 22-23 academic year. We also guarantee free tuition to students with household incomes under $70,000. We help you keep your degree affordable.
Get help applying for financial aid Learn about the FLC Tuition Promise
The transition to college is different for everyone, from coursework and exams to figuring out the academic system. Our programs help you.
Find support through the Academic Hub Learn about TRIO programming
Developing a support network is important for first-gen students. We offer a supportive, inclusive environment and well-being resources.
Join the First-Gen Student Club Dive into Student Well-Being programming
I felt scared when I got dropped off at college, and my family drove away. In every class, when I would look around, I thought everyone else knew the "secrets" to success, and they all belonged there, but not me. So I say to you, You DO belong here! And there are a LOT of us here who understand what it feels like and are eager to help you succeed!
As a first-gen student, I remember feeling like college was such a different world from the farm I grew up on. Soon, I realized I could stay connected to both places - my family community and my college community. As a first-gen student, bring your whole self into your classes and don't leave any part of you behind.
One of the main reasons I succeeded in college was because I made friends with some of my professors and was not afraid to ask them for advice or help. They offered valuable insight regarding further schooling and life advice when I needed it.
As a first-gen college student myself, I didn't know about resources or the research about the benefits of being involved on campus. I also had no idea that many professors were on my side and wanted to help me succeed. Instead, I had an "us vs. them" mentality, thinking they wanted to fail me.
It will be okay when you leave home. You're homesick for a bit, but you will get into your routine and learn how to navigate your college experience. The Native American Center played a huge role in my success at FLC—I could make friends, join clubs, and know the events on campus.
Michelle BonannoFirst-gen student and alumni of FLCReed Library, Room 142Phone: 970-247-7183Email: bonanno_m@fortlewis.edu