Proud to Be First-Gen
At LMU, any student whose parent(s) or caregiver(s) did not receive a bachelor's degree from a university located within the United States is referred to as a first-generation graduate student. If your parent(s) or caregivers(s) attained an associate's degree from a community college and/or you have siblings who have gone to college, you are still considered a first-generation student under our definition!
CPD is dedicated to providing access to career-focused programs and resources that support the unique first-gen graduate student experience.
National Statistics on First-Gen Graduate Student Career Outcomes
According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success:
- One year after earning a bachelor's degree in academic year 2015-16, 80% of both first-generation and continuing-generation graduates were employed, but fewer first-generation graduates had a job that requires a bachelor's degree.
- First-generation college graduates were less confident than continuing-generation graduates that they could come up with $2,000 if an unexpected need arose.
- More first-generation college graduates than continuing-generation graduates took a job instead of enrolling in additional education for financial reasons, but this gap differed by race/ethnicity.
Upcoming Events
First-Gen Graduate Student Networking Event
Saturday, March 16 | 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | McIntosh Room - University Hall
Career and Professional Development (CPD) and First To Go (F2G) are excited to host the inaugural First-Gen Graduate Student Networking event. Tailored to support first-gen graduate students on their academic, career, and personal journeys, this event provides a unique opportunity to build a community with fellow first-gen individuals.
Attendees will gain valuable networking skills specific to the graduate student experience, receive advice on transitioning to the professional realm, and engage with employers to understand their expectations. Alumni, faculty, and staff will be present to offer support, share insights, and provide opportunities for mentorship, creating a dynamic and empowering environment for first-gen graduate students to thrive.
STUDENT REGISTRATION FACULTY/STAFF/ALUMNI