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First-Gen Initiative

First, but not alone.

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Enrollment Management and Student Affairs

More than 50% of Cal State Monterey Bay students are the first in their family to attend college. 

We support and celebrate this identity by connecting first-gen Otters with the services, resources, opportunities and people they need to succeed in college — and after. 

Defining First-Generation Students

The national organization First-Gen Forward categorizes first-generation students simply as those who are the first in their families to attend college. 

At CSUMB, we define first-gen students as those from families where neither parent or guardian completed a four-year or higher college degree. That means you are still considered first-gen if you meet at least one of the following criteria: 

  • If your parent(s)/guardian(s):
    • Went to a trade school
    • Went to a community college and took classes
    • Went to a community college and earned an associate degree
    • Attended some college but did not graduate
    • Received a four-year degree in another country
  • If a sibling graduated from a four-year college or university

However you define your own first-gen experience, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

First-Generation Student Resources

These are just a few programs, resources and services available to first-gen students at CSUMB.

TRIO is a federally funded program that supports and empowers first-generation, low-income and other disadvantaged students. 

TRIO services include, but are not limited to: 

  • Academic advising
  • Peer mentoring
  • Cultural enrichment events
  • Financial literacy development
  • Career exploration
  • Graduate school preparation

EOP provides a variety of services geared toward California’s historically underserved students. 

At CSUMB, these offerings include an intensive summer bridge program for first-time freshmen as well as a version for transfer students. 

Ongoing programs also include one-on-one advising, academic workshops, cultural activities and even grant opportunities.

The Guardian Scholars program provides personalized support to CSUMB students who have experienced foster care, homelessness or similar life transitions.

Participating students can find assistance at every stage of their college experience, from admissions and financial aid to throughout their academic program.

Guardian scholars may also be eligible for laptop loans, free printing, emergency grants, and other financial assistance.

First-Gen Faculty and Staff Directory

You are not alone. Many faculty and staff members at CSUMB were also the first in their family to complete a four-year degree. They’re proud to be here, supporting you!

View Directory
Three people at the community welcome reception

First-Gen Support is Second Nature at CSUMB

A group of people talking to each other.

“....it’s a weird feeling to have such a big part of my life be completely foreign to my family: things like the intensity of finals, phenomena like imposter syndrome. Not only can I speak about these things to the staff and students in TRIO, but they often are the ones bringing these ideas up in workshops or one-on-one appointments. It means so much to know I am not alone.”

Ryan Anderson ’23

Humanities and Communication; TRIO program participant