The Challenges of Being a First-Generation College Student

Neither of your parents had the chance to pursue a higher education, nor did their parents before them. Blessed with your family’s support, however, you’ll soon break new academic ground as a first-generation college student.

It’s a thrilling prospect — but one that also carries a considerable amount of angst. Unlike their peers with parents who have university degrees, first-generation college students experience some unique struggles.

1. Breakaway Guilt

You’ve worked hard to get where you’re going, and going to a prestigious university is an honor, so why would you feel vaguely uneasy about your success?

Well, it isn’t unusual for first-generation college students to suffer from what’s known as “breakaway guilt” when they leave their families behind for the world of academia. Even though their families view their upward mobility as a sign of great progress, first-generation students often feel a bit like they’re abandoning their parents, their siblings and their culture — especially if they’re international students.

2. Information Gaps

When a student’s parents have been to college, the student often benefits in a remarkably subtle — but profound — way from the fact that their parents have “been there,” and “done that.” The parents have been through the process of transitioning to adulthood by leaving home, living among strangers in student housing and being wholly responsible for their own future.

First-generation students, by comparison, have to navigate unfamiliar waters. They cannot turn to their parents for the kind of guidance that other multi-generational students may have. Plus, the lack of shared experiences with their parents can make them feel even more uncomfortable and awkward about leaving home behind.

3. Social Difficulties

Fitting into campus life can be hard for anybody, but the difficulty level rises when you’re a first-generation student. If you’re an international student, too, you may have significant trouble navigating the cultural norms of an academic campus on your own.

Money, too, can be a barrier to social acceptance — whether you have a lot of it or don’t have any. A first-generation student who overcame financial difficulties to gain admission to a top-tier school may find it difficult to keep up with the social lives of their well-heeled peers, since travel, Greek life and weekend entertainment can be very costly.

Coming from a wealthier family doesn’t guarantee acceptance in a social group, however, and could even make it harder for a first-generation international student to find their place. They may have most in common with other first-generation students but still be treated as an “outsider” because they don’t have the same financial struggles.

4. Poor Home Support

Throughout your educational journey, your parents have always had your back — so why would that change now that you’re in college? It won’t, not exactly — but once you’re on campus, your parents will be removed from the day-to-day struggles you face. Their lack of experience with the pressures of higher education can make it difficult for parents to relate.

That can translate into frustration on both ends. Your parents may offer advice about classes, campus life and more that will frustrate you because they don’t fully understand the dynamics of the situation. You may frustrate them when you don’t take their advice the way you did in high school. That can make it harder to find the emotional support and motivation for your struggles.

Ultimately, none of these are insurmountable issues — especially when you’re conscious of their potential. Many universities now have specialized support programs for first-generation college students, and they’ll be happy to help you find your emotional footing as you move forward. Working with your college admissions counselor to find the perfect campus fit for your personality and needs can also make the transition process a lot smoother.