About

What is I AM FIRST?

The goals of I AM FIRST are to:

1. Create a visibility campaign of first-generation students, faculty, and staff community at Cal Poly Pomona
2. Create access and equity for First Generation College Students (FGCS) through faculty/staff mentorships

At Cal Poly Pomona, you are a First Generation College Student if you are any of the following:

1. A student with neither of their natural or adoptive parents received a baccalaureate degree
2. A student who, prior to the age of 18, regularly resided with and received support from only one parent and whose supporting parent did not receive a baccalaureate degree
3. An individual who, prior to the age of 18, did not reside with or receive support from a natural or adoptive parent

The transition to college is challenging but it can be even more difficult for those who do not have a parent or guardian who is familiar with the college enrollment process and the expectations of campus life. Therefore, we have a responsibility to help first-generation college students to navigate the university and help them translate the important life skills they bring with them that will support their academic success.

We recognize that first-generation students bring with them a wealth of strengths and skills to Cal Poly Pomona, such as:

• Aspiration
• Diversity
• Linguistic Abilities/Bilingualism
• Persistence
• Resilience