Supporting First-Generation Students at Saint Mary’s College

Navigating college can be a unique journey for first-generation students, who often have to pioneer their path in higher education. At Saint Mary’s College, first-generation students find more than just an academic institution—they discover a supportive community dedicated to helping them thrive. Through comprehensive programs like the Kessler Scholars, Belles Connect, and personalized career and academic advising, Saint Mary’s is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that academically and professionally empowers first-generation students.

A Comprehensive Support System

Saint Mary’s provides a range of resources specifically designed for first-generation students, helping them navigate the unfamiliar landscape of college life. Christin Kloski ’15, director of the Office for Student Equity, notes that “wraparound services” play a vital role in easing students into campus life. One of the unique offerings is a “hidden syllabus” that explains academic terms and campus norms that first-gen students may not be familiar with, allowing them to start with a strong foundation. “Our goal is to help them navigate the entire college system,” Kloski explains, “from orientation weekend to their final day of classes​.”

Assistant Director Donna Taylor Schuman, who leads the Kessler Scholars program, shares a similar vision, describing the program’s holistic approach: “We focus not only on academics but also on social and emotional support.” Through the Kessler Scholars program, first-gen students are welcomed to campus a week early, giving them a head start in familiarizing themselves with the campus and building friendships. “Moving in early was a huge benefit for me,” says Jasmine Martinez ’27, a biology and chemistry major. “It gave me a chance to know my way around campus and connect with other first-gen students who quickly became my closest friends.”

Building Friendships and Community

The Kessler Scholars and Belles Connect programs do more than ease students into college life; they create a supportive community that often becomes like family. Kessler Scholar Alyssa Brown ’27 shares, “The girls in Kessler understand what I’m going through. We talk it out and help each other with classwork, creating a sense of home.”​

Chloe Smith ’27, an anthropology major, appreciates the supportive nature of the Saint Mary’s community as a whole. “Everyone at Saint Mary’s is very supportive, always pushing you to do your absolute best because they know you’re capable,” Chloe says. “It’s a close-knit community, and everyone treats each other like family.”​

Personal Connections with Faculty

Saint Mary’s small class sizes give first-generation students a unique advantage by allowing them to develop personal relationships with professors. Faculty members play an integral role in students’ success by offering open office hours and engaging with students one-on-one. Adriana Petty ’01, director of Multicultural and International Student Services, emphasizes the personal approach taken by faculty: “At Saint Mary’s, students get time with professors and staff who genuinely care about their success, both academically and personally.”​

This accessible, student-centered approach allows first-gen students to feel comfortable reaching out when they need help. Madison Gentry ’27, a nursing major, recalls how her anatomy professor went above and beyond to support her: “Professor Jane A. Eleff checked on me weekly and helped me catch up with my coursework. Professors here really care and make personal connections with students.”​

Career Support from Day One

The career and advising office offers professional development resources that are particularly valuable to first-generation students, providing practical skills and career guidance throughout their time at Saint Mary’s. Director Stacie Jeffirs highlights that her office helps students “build career skills and connect with our alumnae network.” By offering resume workshops, mock interviews, and networking events, this office prepares students for life after graduation. “We want students to recognize their strengths from day one and understand how to use them throughout their college journey and beyond,” Jeffirs shares. 

One of the standout programs is a CliftonStrengths workshop held during the Kessler Scholars’ orientation week, where students identify and develop their unique strengths. “We want students to feel that their skills are valuable not only for their academic journey but for the wider community,” Jeffirs says. This emphasis on strengths-based development instills confidence in students, empowering them to see their first-generation identity as an asset​.

A Legacy of Mentorship and Community

Saint Mary’s commitment to first-generation students continues well beyond graduation. Through alumnae mentorship programs and career services, graduates are encouraged to stay connected with the College and give back by supporting current students. Jeffirs, a first-generation college graduate, describes how alumnae often return to guide new students, bringing wisdom from their professional journeys with them. “Our alumnae are our greatest resource,” she said. “They understand the challenges of college and are eager to give back, mentoring the next generation of first-gen students." 

Petty is an example of how alumnae support the College and first-gen students. “I find it important to support first-gen students because I am a first-gen alumna of Saint Mary’s College. I know from my own journey that I would not have succeeded without help.”

For first-generation students considering Saint Mary’s, the message is clear: You’re not alone. With a dedicated network of support, mentorship opportunities, and a close-knit community, Saint Mary’s offers a nurturing environment where first-gen students are celebrated, empowered, and prepared to succeed.

“Being first-gen is something to be celebrated,” Kloski said. “At Saint Mary’s, we’re dedicated to honoring first-gen students, faculty, and staff by fostering an environment that encourages them to take pride in their journey”. 

November 12, 2024