Your journey as a first-generation college student will be exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, but never alone. We are so excited to welcome and support you as you forge ahead on this brand-new college path that will soon become your own. Alverno faculty, staff and your fellow first-generation college students know the joys and fears of navigating that path. We’re all here to help you find your way.
Did you know that 70% of Alverno undergraduates are first-generation college students? You are part of a diverse and wonderful community of students who are are the first to navigate college -- and we're so happy you're here! Your peers come from Milwaukee, across Wisconsin, throughout the country and around the globe. You all belong here, and we are looking forward to supporting your next steps.
Student Stories: The First-Generation Journey
"The journey for a first-generation student is long and feels like it is never-ending. There are moments when you will be filled with doubt and possibly question if you
deserve to be here. You will feel like you have to do things on your own because that has always been expected of you. However, you are not alone! There are countless people that are waiting
and willing to help you."
– Advice from first-generation student Maria to other first-generation college students considering Alverno College
First-Generation College Student Celebrations
To our first-generation college graduates: You truly are Alverno’s “first flames” who light the way for your families, friends, communities, our College, and first-generation college students everywhere. We celebrate your light!
On May 3rd, 2023, Alverno launched our newest first-generation college graduation tradition: the bestowing of first-generation graduation cords in a special cording ceremony for the
undergraduate Class of 2023.
These beautiful custom cords are blue and green -- and these colors were chosen with great intention, to symbolize and celebrate being first (blue) and growth and new beginnings
(green).
Thank you to all of our students, faculty, and staff who made this important celebration possible.
This first-generation graduation cording ceremony, which will be held biannually going forward, represents just one of many ways Alverno is expanding recognition, celebration, and
support for your success as a first-generation college student.
First-Generation College Student Wisdom
As a first-generation college student, you draw on rich experience, wisdom, insights, and strengths. We asked some of our amazing first-generation alumna to share their perspectives, and we are excited to spotlight them and their answers here.
Question: What piece of advice would you share with prospective students
looking to a future as the first in their family to attend college?
Resources
We have a multitude of resources to help you and your family navigate the college journey – and many more to come! Check out the resources below to learn more about the ways we’ll support and cheer you on, every step of the way.
You are in GREAT company as a first-generation college student at Alverno! 70% of your classmates are also first-generation college students -- as are many faculty and staff members. In addition to all your Alverno resources and partners along your college journey, you are part of the broader community of first-generation college students all across the country who are embarking on the same college journey of "firsts." Here is one story shared by Remezcla.
