Student Success
The First-Gen Experience
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What Does First-Gen Mean?
A first-generation college student is someone whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not
earn a four-year college degree.
For many students, being first-gen means navigating college expectations, systems, and language for the first time. This can include learning how advising works, understanding academic requirements, managing financial aid processes, and figuring out which campus offices provide support.
First-gen students may enter college without prior exposure to how universities operate, which makes clear information and guidance especially important.
Why First-Gen Status Matters at USM
At The University of Southern Mississippi, first-generation status is used to identify students who may benefit from additional guidance, connection, and support as they navigate college.
Southern Miss recognizes that first-gen students may be learning how college systems work while actively participating in them. As a result, the university has developed programs, services, and resources specifically designed to support first-gen students academically, socially, and professionally.
First-gen status at USM can:
- Open access to specialized support programs and communities
- Connect students with advising, coaching, and mentoring opportunities
- Provide structured guidance for navigating academic and institutional processes
Understanding your first-gen status helps you better understand what resources are available to you and how to take advantage of them throughout your time at Southern Miss.
Your First-Gen Experience at Southern Miss
Starting college as a first-generation student can feel unfamiliar, but at Southern Miss, it’s a shared experience. In fact, about 33% of students identify as first-gen!
You may:
- Encounter new terms, offices, or processes that aren’t always explained up front
- Be expected to manage deadlines, communication, and decisions more independently than in high school
- Need to seek out information or support rather than waiting for it to be offered
At The University of Southern Mississippi, independence is expected, but support is built into the system. Learning how to navigate the university—who to contact, where to go, and when to ask questions—is part of the college experience.
If something feels confusing, that does not mean you are doing college “wrong.” It means you are learning how the system works.
10 Keys to Success as a First-Gen Student at USM
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1. Ask questions early.College does not always explain processes up front. Asking questions is expected and encouraged. |
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2. Check Canvas regularly.Assignments, grades, and announcements are primarily communicated through Canvas. |
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3. Understand the difference between offices.Academic advisors, instructors, and support offices each serve different roles. |
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4. Track deadlines independently.Professors may not remind you about due dates or upcoming exams. |
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5. Use support before things feel overwhelming.Many campus resources are most helpful when used early in the semester. |
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6. Learn common campus acronyms.College uses a lot of shorthand; understanding it helps you navigate more confidently. |
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7. Communicate professionally with instructors.Email is a primary form of communication in college. |
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8. Know where to go for academic support.Tutoring, coaching, and skill-building resources are available across campus. |
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9. Balance academics with responsibilities.Many first-gen students juggle work, family, and school—planning ahead matters. |
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10. Remember that navigating college is a skill.Confidence comes from learning the system over time, not from knowing everything at once. |
First Gen Programs and Opportunities at Southern Miss
Eagle F1rst — First-Gen Student Organization
Eagle F1rst — First-Gen Student Organization
Provides connection, community, leadership development, and peer support for first-generation students. You can also mention that they have events, newsletters, and opportunities to connect with peers who share similar experiences.
First-Gen Fest
An event during Golden Eagle Welcome Week that celebrates first-generation freshmen, introduces key resources, and highlights the student experience. Co-sponsored by CSS, TRIO-SSS and McNair Scholars.
TRIO Student Support Services
A federal, grant-funded program that supports eligible first-gen students with advising, skill development, mentoring, workshops, and community. Students can use TRIO-SSS for both academic and personal support.
National First-Gen Celebration Week
A week of activities and celebrations around National First-Gen Day (Nov. 8), including workshops, games, community building, and commemorative events for first-generation students. This is a recurring, inclusive campus event.
McNair Scholars
Helps first-gen students pursue graduate studies and research, with mentorship, research opportunities, and graduate preparation.
Success Coaching & Success Experts Workshops (via CSS)
Although not first-gen exclusive, these are highly relevant tools first-gen students use to build academic skills (time management, goal setting, study strategies) and navigate USM systems.
Campus Resources
Academic Resources
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