Resources

There are SMU-specific and national resources available to support you and other first-generation college students.

Discover, contribute to, and engage these resources for yourself.

Someone providing guidance to a student

Come Chat With Us

Meet with the Director of the First-Gen Initiative for academic counseling, scholarship exploration, campus resource awareness, friendly chats, conflict coaching, processing difficult situations, becoming fearless, or anything else.

Chat

Clothes on rack with words in the middle that state "Need Business Clothing?".

Career Closet

Obtain business casual and professional clothing for free.

Visit

Students at Resource Fair

College Terminology Glossary

We've created a massive college term glossary to help you navigate the college landscape. You'll find common higher education terms as well as those unique to SMU.

Learn

Financial Literacy Specialist

Financial Literacy Specialist

Set up a one-to-one consultation with our Financial Literacy Specialist. They can provide you with information to help you make informed financial decisions. Feel free to visit the financial literacy site for resources too!

Learn

student in library

National Resources

Explore the resources below and throughout the site to better understand the first-generation student experience, engage with research and data, identify support strategies, and explore why advancing first-generation student success is a desirable outcome.

Explore

Two students meeting with their Residential Community Director

Spaces & Places

Finding your place on campus is also about physical space. First-generation college students are invited to visit two spaces on the Hilltop to study, socialize, and use free services.

Visit

HOPE Certificate with pen

Scholarships

There are a number of college scholarships available for first-generation college students. Review and apply.

Apply

Students in Shuttles classroom

Supportive Faculty Staff

Review the list of SMU faculty and staff at SMU who have committed themselves to supporting first-generation students. 

Connect

Cups with SMU First--Gen lettering, boxes with first gen proud stickers in the background

The Shop

Fueling your body is vital to your success and we want to help! Food is available for students in need. 

Inquire