As the chapter of one’s high school career is about to be over, another one starts with a new beginning that often can be seen as overwhelming when transitioning into college. This is true, especially for those that are first-generation college students. However, there is no need to fear because Rockhurst is here for you! Here are our top 4 pieces of advice that allow for a smooth transition into your new adventure, especially for first-generation college students:
1. Get involved with Peer Coaching
Peer coaching is a resource that is offered to new Rockhurst students where they are paired with a current Rockhurst student. These current students are certified in helping with anything imaginable ranging from academics, making a schedule, or just finding hobbies or clubs to join. They will support you in finding goals that will help you reach your future dreams and allow you to succeed. Peer coaching is part of Success Coaching which houses a multitude of services that will benefit you during your 4 years here at RU. Make sure to go check them out!
2. Join and Follow RU First
RU First is another major program within Success Coaching that recognizes the accomplishments of first-generation college students. By raising awareness and gratitude for the journey that these first-generation college students are taking, it allows them to have a voice that they can share with the whole campus. Lastly, it allows first-generation college students to find others that are in the same situation as them and create life-long friendships that can have a significant impact on them academically and socially. Follow Rockhurstufirst on Instagram to be constantly updated, they even give away cookies!
3. Meet with your Academic Advisor
Academic advisors are faculty members that are offered to students in order to navigate the academic experience of college. They are there to offer advice on what classes one should be taking, give you opportunities on where to research, or even provide you options on what you could do after college. Remaining in constant communication is key in order to be successful here at Rockhurst University. Planning out a 4-year plan is typically the best option since it allows students to know what classes they will be taking during their freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior year of college. They are definitely a major resource that will benefit you in the long run, so take the time to get to know your academic advisor.
4. Visit the Center for Career Development
The Center for Career Development is such a valuable resource where students are able to find and further develop their natural skills and apply them to the careers that they are interested in pursuing. The Center for Career Development hosts a multitude of services that can benefit students that are undergraduates, graduates, or even alumni. These services range from career advising, resume workshops, and even mock interviews in order to prepare you before entering the workforce or continuing into an even more advanced academic institution. This definitely is a good way to put yourself out there and get the experience that you need that most employers are looking for!
