4 first-generation students pose holding blue t-shirts reading "PROUD TO BE A F1RST GENERATION BLUE HEN"

First Generation Flock

 

Welcome, First-Generation Students!

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Rachel Garcia
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Dear First Gen Blue Hens,

Navigating the college experience as a first-generation student is exciting—with its a unique learning curve. I remember my own first year as an undergraduate, energized and curious, figuring out everything from how office hours for professors worked to how to add or drop a class. And, yes, even how to pay for laundry. First-gen students learn fast, ask great questions and bring a resourcefulness to college that comes from charting our own paths. I want you to know that you’re more ready for it than you think!

Here, you're joining a community of resilience, creativity and determination. We hope this page reminds you that you belong here at the University of Delaware—not despite being first-gen, but because of everything that experience has already taught you. Explore our resources, built with students like you in mind:

  • We're First: UD's first-generation student organization. Connect with peers for tips on everything from financial aid to finding your people.
  • First-Generation Celebration Week: Celebrate with UD to honor what you've accomplished and how much you bring to our community.
  • UThrive: A support group that helps students navigate the transition to college.
  • And more!

Reach out to Student Diversity & Inclusion any time. We're here for you.

Welcome to the Blue Hen Flock! From one first-gen Blue Hen to another: I see everything you've already accomplished and I'm in your corner, rooting for your continued success!

Go Hens,
Rachel Garcia

Community Building

staff of Student Diversity & Inclusion pose as a group

Student Diversity and Inclusion

Get connected with events, organizations and leadership opportunities that celebrate and uplift our diverse Blue Hens!

Student Diversity and Inclusion

students in the Center for Intercultural Engagement participate in an event

Center for Intercultural Engagement

Find community, visit student organizations or study and hang with friends.

Center for Intercultural Engagement

two smiling students pose on The Green

We're First

Join this student-led group to be in community with other first-generation college students.
 

We're First on Student Central

 

a smiling student holds up a t-shirt reading "PROUD TO BE A F1RST GENERATION BLUE HEN"

First-Gen GroupMe

Stay in the know about first-gen resources and events by joining GroupMe, used by many other student organizations, too.

Join GroupMe and Find Your Group

students in the Center for Intercultural Engagement participate in an event

First-Gen Blue Hens Directory

Find your flock of first-gen Blue Hens and use an email template to reach out.
 

First-Generation Directory

students in the Center for Black Culture  pose on the steps of the CBC building

Center for Black Culture

Explore resources, events, celebrations and community the CBC has to offer.

 

Center for Black Culture
 

a banner painted with "National First Gen Celebration"

StUDent Central

See and RSVP to campus events, search for student organizations and stumble upon a whole world of campus involvement!

See what Events SDI has Coming Up

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Featured Programs

Graduation

Celebrate the completion of your degree! As you prepare to close out your time at UD,  keep a close eye on your inbox and connect with your advisor to ensure you have all the important deadlines.

a student wearing a cap and gown holds another student in a cap and gown

Graduation Stoles

If you’re graduating this Spring, watch SDI’s Instagram for details about how to secure your free first-gen graduation stole!
 

three students wearing first-generation graduation stoles pose in front of a blue UD background