Many
college campuses offer some type of academic and social support to students who
are among the first in their families to enroll in higher education. The
University of California is trying a different tack with a new program
involving faculty.
The
program, dubbed First-Gen Faculty, encourages professors who were
first-generation students themselves to open up about their experiences with
their classes. Those who sign up to participate will wear special shirts or
buttons during the first week of school next fall so students can identify them.
According
to a report in Inside Higher Ed, an estimated 800 faculty from nine campuses
are expected to take part. About 42% of UC students are the first in their
families to enroll in a four-year school.
“The idea
is that first-generation students can seek out professors with similar
experiences as role models or mentors,” the report explained. “Faculty members
can share advice and alert students to essential campus services.”
The program
will also provide training about first-generation issues to UC faculty and
staff.