First-Generation Students

Welcome to IWU!

Are you wondering if you are "first"? At IWU we recognize first-generation college students as any student whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) have not completed a four-year degree. If your parent/guardian has some college experience, you are still a First Gen. If you have an older sibling in college or who has already graduated, you are BOTH First Gen.  

Here at IWU, we honor your unique experiences and are happy to provide guidance as you transition into the college environment. Even though you are the first in your family to attend college, know that you are not on this journey alone. Nearly 30% of the incoming class at IWU are first generation students, who we like to call IWU F1RST. 

Here are IWU resources if you are ready to apply to IWU or have already been accepted. There is also a section dedicated for advice to family members whose children will be first generation. And for the IWU faculty and staff, who would like to know how to assist their first generation students, we have tips for you that explain how to be an IWU First Advocate. 

We wish you all the best during this exciting, new experience, and we are happy to be your FIRST resource here on campus. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the IWU F1RST team at iwufirst@iwu.edu. 

Thank you! Deborah Halperin (dhalperi@iwu.edu)