First Generation initiatives - 1GenU

Goals

1GenU strives to:

• Create a welcoming environment that builds a sense of belonging among incoming first-generation students, their families, and the DU community
• Share knowledge and information about roles and community resources to help 1GenU students better navigate their college experience
• Engage collaboratively with the DU and Denver communities
• Build a community of support among 1GenU students at the University
• Help first-generation students acclimate to college life by providing pre-exposure to the University and broader community
• Provide a network of University and peer support for first-generation students

Program Overview

Each year of the 1GenU program focuses on different specific aspects of academic, professional, and personal development.

• Year One: Student Success & College Transition

  • Helps first-generation students acclimate to college life by hosting a pre-orientation experience the week prior to DU's general orientation
  • Provides 1GenU students with campus information and identity development resources to help smooth their transition into college life
• Year Two: Community Engagement & Connection

  • Hosts on-campus events to get first-generation students involved
  • Helps facilitate relationship building between fellow students, faculty, staff, and the broader community
  • Starts 1GenU students participating in community service
• Year Three: Career Readiness & Mentorship

  • Provides first-generation students with help and support in building their resumes, writing cover letters, and creating LinkedIn profiles
  • Offers mentorship opportunities
• Year Four: Transition & Career Exploration

  • Provides networking opportunities and job/post-graduation preparation to help smooth 1GenU students' transition out of college and into adult life

FAQ

• Can I still participate in the 1GenU program if I am a member of a Living & Learning Community (LLC)?

  Yes! You will still need to complete the 1GenU application, but first-generation students living in LLCs have the opportunity to fully participate in the 1GenU program.

• Does 1GenU have a first-generation floor in the residence halls?

  Yes! You can apply to live in the first-generation floor in Centennial Halls in your 1GenU application, though this is not required. If you are part of a Living & Learning Community (LLC) that requires you to live on their floor, you cannot reside on the first-generation floor.

• Does 1GenU have a scholarship?

  Yes! 1GenU provides a $150 book scholarship every quarter.

• How much does 1GenU cost?

  Nothing! 1GenU is offered at no cost to the participants and is a fully funded Access & Transitions program.

Contact

Dong Dinh, MA

Dong.Dinh@DU.edu

303-871-4255