At Washington State University we believe that every student should have the resources and opportunities needed to reach their own full potential and to succeed in their chosen careers.
The ASCC is excited to assist WSU’s First Generation Students succeed academically and in their careers!
Welcome to the ASCC First Generation page. We recognize the challenges you face as a first-generation college student. Through the resources provided, you can proactively address concerns such as navigating college culture, improving study skills, accessing academic support, managing financial constraints, and finding a healthy balance between your academic and personal responsibilities. We also want to provide the opportunity and resources to make informed decisions about your future career. Remember, you can overcome these challenges, and with the right support and resources, you can thrive in the present and the future.
Please consider the resources on this page or make an appointment with us to address your concerns, work through challenges, and strengthen your application materials.
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Academic Concerns
Gaining Knowledge of Study Skills and Time Management:
ASCC Academic Success Coaching
ASCC individualized coaching sessions, available to all undergraduate students, aim to support educational, personal, and professional growth by focusing on key areas such as time management, learning strategies, notetaking, testing, motivation, and procrastination, recognizing the challenges of university settings and providing resources and strategies to excel in rigorous learning environments.
ASCC drop-in tutoring services, provided by peer facilitators, are free and designed to enhance academic success, covering a range of subjects including Accounting, Biology, Math, Spanish, and Writing; make the most of your session by coming prepared bringing specific questions, attending consistently, and reviewing the material covered afterwards.
Addressing Financial Constraints Impacting Academic Success:
First Gen Library Use and Free Textbook Access
WSU’s Library staff answer questions and provide resources to access some text-books free of charge. Be sure to check their availability before purchasing your textbooks.
WSU’s Student Financial Services
Work with WSU Financial Services department to determine what kinds of financial assistance you are eligible for as you pursue your higher education.
WSU’s Emergency Assistance Fund
For those who find themselves in instances of severe financial need be aware there are resources to access.
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Career Concerns
Limited Access to Networks and Mentors:
An online mentorship tool to connect with industry professionals and learn more about expectations and norms for a wide range of settings.
Lack of Familiarity with Professional Settings:
Rise First is a dedicated team of First Gen students and staff, working to create an inclusive online platform that consolidates nationwide programs and resources for first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students, providing a curated resource center and fostering a supportive community that offers information, support, and career-focused resources to empower FGLI students in their higher education journey and professional development.
Limited Knowledge of Career Paths:
ASCC’s Labor Market Insights Tool
Learn about wages, openings and requirements of many jobs from a wide variety of industries. Use either the keyword search or search within an industry type and inform yourself about what is possible for the future.
My Next Move: Explore Careers and Educational Pathways
Utilize this interactive tool by the U.S. Department of Labor to explore diverse career options and gain insights into the educational pathways leading to those careers.
Individual Guidance and Coaching for Career Development from First Semester on:
ASCC’s Career Coaches are ready to meet with you to give you the opportunity to ask questions, talk about your goals, and create a plan for having a job that you are excited for lined up at graduation. Starting sooner is always helpful so don’t hesitate to set up an appointment with us.
