The First-Generation Initiative (FGI) was established in 2019. Its mission is to advocate and support the success of first-generation college students by offering events, programs, and funding as well as meaningful connections through mentorship, academic counseling, and collaboration with campus partners.
A first-generation student at SMU is a student where neither parent nor guardian has attained a four-year degree (including degrees earned outside the United States). Being the first generation in your family to pursue a bachelor's degree is a proud accomplishment. We see "first-gen" students as courageous trailblazers and pioneers as they set out to accomplish something that hasn't been modeled or done in their family. Consequently, we recognize that first-gen students may face unique obstacles in finding and navigating the academic, social, cultural, and financial resources within higher education. These are barriers the First-Generation Initiative seeks to address and help students overcome.
If you are a first-generation student, we want to welcome you. SMU recognizes the unique experiences you will have as you begin (or continue) this exciting journey on the Hilltop.
Our office is located within the Social Change and Intercultural Engagement Office, which is an excellent place to hangout and study. If you’re seeking more intentional guidance, students can also schedule an appointment with the associate director for scholarship assistance, campus resource awareness, processing difficult situations, or anything else.
Whether you are a parent or student, college terminology can sometimes seem like a different language. We've created a glossary for you that may help you acclimate to frequently used words on SMU's campus!
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A brief overview of FGI at SMU featuring staff/faculty and First-Generation Association, SMU's first-generation student organization.
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Tips and advice to help first-generation students succeed at SMU.
Sunday, November 08, 2026, 5:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Join us as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and connection of first-generation students, alumni, faculty, and staff. This year’s theme —...
Sunday, November 08, 2026, 5:00pm — Hughes-Trigg Student Center Lower Chamber Kick off First-Gen Celebration Week by joining us for a movie screening, co-hosted with SMU Counseling Services. Running on empty? Time to plug...
Monday, November 09, 2026, 10:00am — Hughes-Trigg Atrium Navigating college costs shouldn't feel like a solo job. Whether you want to grab a quick budgeting strategy or get feedback on financial literacy,...
Monday, November 09, 2026, 4:30pm — Private Location (sign in to display) A lecture hosted by the SMU Gerald and Gail Turner Scholars Program, in collaboration with the First Generation Initiative, to celebrate First...
Monday, November 09, 2026, 7:30pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Join FGA X MHPS Commons for a fun night on the lawn! Connect with peers over churros, coffee, games and music. Charge up with this social hangout to...
Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 10:00am — Hughes-Trigg Atrium Navigating college costs shouldn't feel like a solo job. Whether you want to grab a quick budgeting strategy or get feedback on financial literacy,...
Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Navigating college when you are the first in your family to do it is a massive achievement—but you don't have to navigate it alone. It is time to...
Wednesday, November 11, 2026, 12:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Ready to take the next step toward your professional goals? Join us for "Fuel Your Future," a career preparation event designed to equip you with the ...