Advice and Tips
We want to help you open doors and connect with VCU’s community of first-generation students, as well as others who will support and encourage you throughout your journey. Here you’ll find tips and advice shared by our first-generation students, faculty and staff.
Going Home
Being known as the “college kid” can make going back home for breaks uncomfortable and even stressful. You might worry that you’ll be asked about your grades, your major, your friends, or even parts of your identity that you’re not ready to talk about. The You First peer mentors put together Tips for going home for breaks based on their own experiences. If you’d like to talk more with a peer mentor, fill out the matching questionnaire and we’ll connect you with someone. We also recommend University Counseling Services if you’d like to talk to a professional.
The Impostor Phenomenon
Most people can relate to the impostor phenomenon once they hear the definition: it’s the feeling that you may not belong in a space when you are actually qualified to be there (e.g., getting accepted to college). Many describe it as feeling like a fraud, or being worried that people will find out they aren’t supposed to be there. To learn more about the impostor phenomenon and to read about how VCU students describe their experiences with it, visit our Imposter Phenomenon page.
First-Gen Student Essay
VCU graduate Jamshid Forugh won first place in the Focus Query Essay contest for his essay titled, “What is Focused Inquiry?” In it, he describes his first-generation experience, being an English language learner and immigrant from Afghanistan, and how Focused Inquiry helped build his confidence as a college student. We hope you will read Forugh’s inspiring words.
Glossary of College Terms
Going to college can feel like learning another language! It’s sometimes overwhelming, so give yourself time to acclimate to these new words and concepts. Be sure to bookmark this U.S. News article that includes an extensive glossary of terms. Our office also maintains a Glossary of Terms. If there’s a term you don’t see on the list, email us at youfirst@vcu.edu and we’ll add it!
Advice from former first-gen students
“College can be intimidating, but in order to get on the right path and succeed, you need to get involved and strive at your goals. Use the resources available to you to make your time here easier. Plan for circumstances you may find yourself in, and above all NEVER EVER GIVE UP.”
Papa Beye '21
Computer engineering
"On the other side of fear is your freedom - it can be scary to enter a new place, especially when you feel alone. But, once you try, it's worth it. You already conquered the fear of coming to VCU, don't let fear stop you from taking advantage of the opportunities here."
Ashley Staton
Executive Assistant, Strategic Enrollment Management and Student Success
"Get involved around campus and know your resources. Joining a student organization or attending networking opportunities are a great way to meet other students. Be willing to ask questions for help. You'd be surprised that you aren't the only student with that same question."
Matthew Lovisa '23
Director, Communications and Marketing, Student Affairs