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Career Resources for First Generation College Students

The Office of Career and Professional Development is committed to supporting First Generation College Students at all points of the career development process. Below are helpful resources specific to this population of students, including job search tips and employer-specific internship opportunities.


Networking


Employer-Specific Internship Opportunities

Employers and companies offer diversity initiatives and training.  Look for programs that are aimed at your demographic, and you can gain professional development, leadership skills, networking opportunities, and internships.

  • Capital One First Gen Focus  First-Gen Focus is a program designed specifically for first-generation college students as part of Capital One’s broader effort to engage students earlier in their college careers to create access to financial education and skill-building workshops to help them be more successful in their college careers and beyond.
  • First Generation Civil Rights Fellowship Program, or FirstGEN, advances first-generation college students committed to social justice. FirstGEN is a paid summer program for undergraduate students who are the first in their immediate families to attend college and who intend to pursue careers in social justice.
  • Fortis FellowshipOver three years, the Fellowship provides mentorship from high-level professionals, individualized internship and career advising, leadership training workshops, and access to a worldwide network of exceptional student leaders.
  • The Performance Project-First Generation brings together young adults ages 15-22 who self-identify as “first generation,” for artistic training, leadership development, and inter-generational mentoring.
  • Year Up Partners with companies to provide opportunities for young adults to gain the skills, experiences, and support that will empower them to reach their potential through careers and higher education.

Last updated: 10/26/2023