How can first-generation college students find out about the different resources available at colleges that interest them?
Cushman: Colleges are eager to know about students who will represent the first generation in their families to attend college. When you make your first inquiry, be sure to tell the college your situation. Ask for the name and telephone number of someone you can contact if you have questions about your application process. When you fill out the required forms, call that person whenever you have difficulty knowing what to do. When you remind people that you are a first-generation applicant, they will go out of their way to help. Once you get to college, start making personal connections with people who can help you. For example, before or after the first meeting of any class in which you enroll, introduce yourself to the professor as a first-generation student. Say that you really want to do well in the class and that you may need extra help to do so. The professor can tell you about tutoring help or other college resources for students like you. Just as important, go see your professor
