BOLDY BEING FIRST
The University of Arizona's first-gen students are represented in every facet of campus life – from classrooms to student centers, playing fields to research labs, behind a desk or up on stage – there are over 10,000 Wildcats (students, faculty, and staff) who are proud to be the first in their family to attend college.
At the U of A, we call our first-gen students FIRST CATS!
First Cats Connections
Whether you're a first year student getting used to campus or a senior getting ready to graduate, First Cats is here for every step of your U of A journey. From peer mentoring to social events, and connections to other campus resources, we will help you navigate your wildcat experience!
First Gen Cohort Experience
Interested in meeting with other first-gen students in a group setting, going through college together, and having a third-year student help you connect to everything that’s available to you? Join our First-Gen Cohort and experience college together!
CALES First Gen
The College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences (CALES) First Gen is designed to help first-generation students thrive by guiding them to valuable university-wide resources and services tailored to their needs. Through first gen events, students will have the opportunity to network with first-gen faculty, staff and supporters who understand their journey and can offer valuable insights.
CIELO
A transformational program that integrates travel, global education, and service learning into short-term trips both domestically and abroad. CIELO makes global experiential learning programs accessible and affordable and also has scholarships and additional funding support available.
McNair TRIO
We're on a mission to transform academia. A federally funded TRiO program, we empower visionary First Generation and Low-income (FGLI) or Underrepresented students in graduate school through transformative mentorship and rigorous academic support. McNair is housed in the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Consortium (UROC).
SSS TRIO ASEMS
The TRIO ASEMS (Arizona Science, Engineering, and Math Scholars) Program is 100% funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Education and serves 120 participants annually. The program offers support from the time that students enter the program through graduation through individualized support, a community of STEM scholars with similar backgrounds, success courses to enhance your connection to your major, tutoring, and so much more!
SSS TRIO Teacher Prep
Student Services Support for aspiring teachers provides holistic support to students from the moment they enter the program through graduation via meetings with professional staff, peer mentors (college students who have been in your shoes), and tutors.
Meet with a Staff Member
If you'd like to meet with someone about which program is a good fit for you, or just want some advice navigating campus. You can schedule an appointment with our First Cats coordinator.
Visit the Thrive Center
A space for first-gen students to meet, hang out, get support, and find community. We can't wait to meet you!
Bartlett Academic Success Center (BASC), ground level, suite 102. Located just behind Bear Down Building and the Main Library.
The University of Arizona uses an expanded definition to capture the experiences of students, families and supporters who are new to U.S. higher education.
A first-gen college student is someone who fits within one or more of the following descriptions:
Neither parent or legal guardian has completed a four-year college degree (typically a bachelor's degree or higher).
Parent(s) completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a country outside of the United States.
A student who has separated or divorced parents and the parent with primary custody, or with whom the student lives with a majority of the time, does not have a bachelor’s degree.
A student who was an unhoused youth, has experienced foster care, or has been a ward of the state.
If you do not meet these descriptions, but would benefit from connecting with First Cats Initiatives, all are welcome to participate!