WVU welcomes students who are first-generation — those whose parent(s) or guardians(s) do not have a four-year degree from a college or school within the U.S. We understand that being first may come with unique challenges. FirstGen Initiatives is here to help students transition to college by building connections to our FirstGen community and navigating campus resources. Donations may be used towards financial assistance, co-curricular activities, and academic expenses for students.
FirstGen Initiatives has been hard at work as a Network Member with FirstGen Forward, founded by The Suder Foundation and NASPA. The additional exposure of the program has resulted developing more partnerships across campus which has led to a greater need for funds to assist our FirstGen students. Approximately 22% of our undergraduate students self-identify as being FirstGen, but that number continues to rise as students learn they are a first-generation student.
Compared to legacy student peers, FirstGen students:
- Have fewer financial resources
- Pursue college-level education at lower rates
- Attain four-year degrees at lower rates
Your support is critical to help support our First-generation students go above and go beyond. We rely on passionate, loyal and caring members of the Mountaineer family, like you, to provide important opportunities for our students and the greater WVU community.
Your support empowers First-generation Initiatives to create incredible opportunities, including …
- Grant aid, purchasing textbooks, and Emergency funding for FirstGen students
- Academic and social engagement activities
- Mentoring and outreach opportunities
- Funding Assistance for Study Abroad
When you make a gift—no matter the size—you help make an immediate impact for our First-generation students. Your spirited generosity and devotion to is greatly appreciated.
