First-Gen Initiative

Helping students start their academic journey

The College of Science and Technology's First-Generation Initiative supports first-year, first-generation college students as they embark on their academic journey. We help bring awareness to the unique challenges first-generation students may encounter and offer resources throughout their time at Temple University. We aim to be a source of support to foster student success, to help build social capital and to help access experiences and opportunities within CST and across the university.

Who is first-gen?

Our definition of a first-generation college student is a student whose parents/guardians did not complete a bachelor’s degree in the United States.

What support do we provide?

We hold events, like pre-semester start sessions, and programs that help first-generation students navigate their college experience by connecting them with resources, mentorship, and support.

Is there career help?

The First-Generation Initiative, in collaboration with CST Professional Development Office, holds sessions each spring to support first-generation college students with information and support they need to build a resume, apply to internships, and much more. Each semester, we invite representatives from various resources and CST departments to network and talk with students about any questions they have. Other workshops we have held focus on learning Microsoft 365, paying for school, and junior and senior panels.