First-Generation Students

It’s Sweet to be 1st at the First! Click here to RSVP to First-Gen Week events.

Monday, November 4th
First Gen Finances
4:00 – 5:00 PM, MLC 368
Join us for our financial literacy and wellness workshop just for first-gen students!

Wednesday, November 6th
First-Gen Flourish
1:00 – 3:0 PM, Milledge Hall Lawn
Decorate your own flowerpot, plant seeds, and learn how to flourish and grow! Hot cocoa will be provided.

Thursday, November 7th
Tutoring, Coaching, and Candy
1:00 – 3:00 PM, Milledge Hall
Come to Milledge Hall to learn about tutoring and academic coaching with a sweet treat!

Friday, November 8th
College Survival 101 Brunch
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, The Intersection – Tate
Join us for brunch and learn tips and tricks on how to navigate college as a first-gen student.

Sweet to be 1st at the First
12:00 – 3:00 PM, Milledge Hall Lawn
Grab a dessert and t-shirt while we celebrate National First-Generation Celebration Day!

Academic Coaching
Academic Coaching at UGA is here to support first-generation students in setting goals, overcoming challenges, and planning next steps. Whether you’re just starting at UGA or preparing for graduation, coaches can help guide you through the college journey.

If you’re interested in meeting with an Academic Coach, email [email protected] and add your Student ID. Include a brief note about what you’d like to discuss to help match you with the right coach.

Disability Resource Center (DRC)
The Disability Resource Center (DRC) at UGA is here to support students with disabilities by providing accommodations that help you succeed in your academic journey. As a student, the DRC can assist with services like note-taking, extended test time, and accessible technology to ensure you have the tools you need to thrive in your classes. If you need accommodations, the DRC is here to connect you with the right resources.

Get connected to the support you need here.

Exploratory Center
If you’re a first-generation student still figuring out which major is right for you, UGA’s Exploratory Center is here to guide you through the process. The center’s advisors are dedicated to helping you reflect on your skills, values, and interests, allowing you to develop an academic and career plan that fits your unique path.

Not sure where to start? The Exploratory Center provides two options to help you move forward: Explore Consultation: If you’re not quite ready to declare Undecided as your major but want to explore your options, schedule an Explore Consultation with an advisor. During this session, they’ll help you identify majors that match your interests and strengths. Check their calendar for availability on SAGE or email [email protected] if no slots are available. Change to Undecided: If you feel ready to officially declare Undecided, you can make the change on Athena. This will give you access to a full advising session with an Explore Advisor. Need help? Email [email protected] or fill out the referral form for guidance.

Grad and Professional School Resources
The Initiatives team at The Office for Student Success and Achievement has resources to help you with grad or professional school. They offer workshops, connect you with mentors, and guide you through the application process! Reach out for any questions!

Peer Tutoring
As a first-generation student, you don’t have to figure everything out alone! UGA’s Office for Student Success and Achievement offers free tutoring through its Peer Education program. You can meet with a Peer Tutor who has already taken your class to help with the material, answer questions, and share study tips Tutoring is available in-person on campus or online through Zoom, either one-on-one or in small study groups.

To start, Download the Penji app on your phone (iOS or Android) and sign in with your MyID and password.

TRIO
As a first-generation college student at UGA, navigating the college experience can feel overwhelming, but TRIO is here to help! TRIO is designed to support first-gen students like you by offering academic advising, tutoring, and workshops that help you succeed in your classes. You can also participate in career planning, graduate school prep, and financial literacy programs to build skills for the future.

Plus, TRIO connects you with a supportive community of students and staff who are ready to guide you every step of the way. Take advantage of TRIO to unlock opportunities and make the most of your time at UGA!

Get involved with TRIO here!

Writing Center
The Jill and Marvin Willis Center for Writing is here to support all UGA writers with any writing project. Writing services are free and open to students, faculty, and staff.

Booking an Appointment: To schedule an appointment, please visit our UGA WCW Penji Community or download the Penji app. You’ll sign in with your UGA SSO credentials.

Locations & Hours
MLC 370 (Main Center Location)
Monday-Thursday: 9 am-5 pm by appointment
Friday: 9 am-3 pm by appointment
Drop-ins: Tuesdays and Thursdays: 5 pm-7 pm

PARK HALL 66 (Writing Wellness Hub)
Drop-ins: Monday-Thursday: 10 am-3 pm

MCBAY Science Library 201
Monday: 11 am-2 pm by appointment
Tuesday: 1 pm-5 pm by appointment
Wednesday: 11 am-5 pm by appointment
Thursday: 3 pm-5 pm by appointment

How to: Check out our how-to videos for quick and easy tips on a variety of topics! Each video is designed to help you learn more and build confidence in areas that matter most. Watch now to explore and enhance your skills!

Bursar’s Office
Not sure how to log into your Student Account? Click here for a step by step guide!

When are my payments for school due? Student account balances are considered due on the first day of class. Any charges incurred on or after the first day of class are considered due immediately.

Student Bill on Athena: Students receive an electronic bill about one month before classes start each term. You can also check your estimated bill on Athena based on your current registration before the official billing is sent out. Not sure how to find your student bill? Click Student Account Services Log in with your UGA ID You can view your student bill and make payments.

Global Engagement
Passport Initiative: Are you a U.S. citizen and never had an adult U.S. passport? This opportunity is for you! The Passport Initiative offers funding of up to $170 to help cover the cost of obtaining a passport through UGA Passport Services. Key things to know: Open to all UGA undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens. Eligible if you’ve never had an adult passport or if your last passport was issued before you turned 16. You don’t need to study abroad to qualify for this funding. This is a one-time opportunity, so apply now while funds are available! Learn about the application process here!

Connect Abroad
The Connect Abroad program offers first-year students a unique opportunity to explore new cultures while earning academic credit. This faculty-led program is designed to help you build connections and gain valuable experiences. Here’s what you need to know: Earn 1.0 academic credit hour while participating in the program. Fulfill your experiential learning graduation requirement. Every Connect Abroad participant will receive an Experiential Learning Scholarship of at least $400 to be used for Connect Abroad program fees and expenses. Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your undergraduate experience! More information about Connect Abroad programs here!

Gilman Workshop/ Scholarship: The Gilman Scholarship is a program that helps U.S. undergraduate students study abroad. It provides financial support to help cover the costs of international travel and living expenses while you gain valuable global experiences. Eligibility: You must be a U.S. citizen, receive a federal Pell Grant, and be planning to study abroad for college credit. Scholarships can provide up to $5,000, which can ease the financial burden of studying overseas. Consider this opportunity as a way to explore the world and gain new perspectives that will help your studies!

Greek Life
Greek Life at UGA offers students a close-knit community within the larger university, helping you build friendships, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact. With over 67 chapters, including the Interfraternity, Multicultural, National Pan-Hellenic, and Panhellenic Councils, Greek Life provides opportunities for academic support, philanthropy, and personal growth. Whether you’re interested in brotherhood, sisterhood, cultural organizations, or service initiatives, Greek Life fosters connections and leadership experiences that can enhance your college journey and beyond.

International Student Life (ISL)
ISL’s mission is to enhance your college experience by welcoming you into their diverse community. No matter your background, there’s a place for you here. The International Student Orientation helps you transition to the U.S., meet friends, and discover student organizations. Join them for International Coffee Hour every Friday from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the Victor K. Wilson Ballroom for free coffee and conversation. Attend the free International Street Festival in downtown Athens, featuring performances, activities, and global food. Interested in ISL? Schedule a meeting with them here for a wide range of needs.

Involvement Network
The Involvement Network is essential for your time at UGA! Discover and attend events, browse and join organizations, and showcase your involvement. This platform allows you to explore all the organizations available to you and keep track of events happening on campus. Get involved and make the most of your UGA experience!

Mentor Program
The UGA Mentor Program can help you build meaningful relationships that support your life and career goals. With over 5,000 mentors—alumni, faculty, and staff—you’re not alone. You’ll have access to their experiences and guidance as you navigate your path! Commitment Options: 16-Week Mentorship: Meet for 1-2 hours each month. Quick Chats: Prefer something shorter? Schedule a 15-30 minute conversation about work, life, or career—perfect for busy schedules! Interested in the Mentor Program? Get connected here! Connecting with a mentor can open doors for you—don’t miss out on this opportunity!

Multicultural Services and Programs (MSP)
Explore spaces, celebrate heritage months, and connect with student organizations through Multicultural Services and Programs (MSP). Whether you’re looking for community or support, MSP offers resources to help you feel at home. Get involved by attending events, joining organizations, or participating in workshops, Lunch and Learn sessions, and Dinner with Strangers. You can also reserve spaces like Adinkra Hall for your events and celebrate your achievements with graduation ceremonies like Rite of Sankofa and ALAS. Sign up for their newsletter here to stay updated on the latest events.

Office of Student Financial Aid
The Office of Student Financial Aid at UGA helps students pay for college. They offer information on different types of financial help, like grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs. Their team helps students understand how to apply for financial aid, manage their money, and make college more affordable. They are there to guide students through the process, answer questions, and support them in finding the best ways to fund their education. Need help creating a personal budget? Click here for a step-by-step worksheet!

FAFSA can be confusing! Here are some key terms to help you as you fill it out. Here’s how you can access your Financial Aid Offer on Athena: Check Your Aid on Athena: Once you’re admitted, you can see your Financial Aid Offer on Athena after it’s created. Complete Your FAFSA and GSFAPP: Make sure you’ve completed the FAFSA and/or Georgia Scholarship/Grant Application (GSFAPP) for the correct year to view your aid. Estimated vs. Official Offers: Depending on the time of year, you may see an Estimated or Official Financial Aid Offer on Athena. Watch for Emails: When the Office of Student Financial Aid creates or updates your offer, you’ll get an email with instructions to log in to Athena and check it. Watch out for scams! The FAFSA form is FREE and SECURE, so if a website asks you to pay to fill it out, you’re not on the official FAFSA site. Visit studentaid.gov to access the correct website. What can I do to get prepared to fill out my FAFSA? Determine your eligibility status. Find out if you are considered a dependent or independent student. This will help you understand whose information will go on the FAFSA. If you’re a first-time filer, you’ll need to set up an account at studentaid.gov to create an FSA ID username and password. You’ll need to have a working email address (one that is not tied to your school account) in order to set this up. If you’re a returning filer, you’ll need to remember your FSA ID username and password so you have it readily available when it’s time to file.

Pride Center
The Pride Center at UGA is here to support first-generation LGBTQIA+ students by offering a welcoming, inclusive community. Whether you’re looking to connect with others, join supportive student groups, or find valuable resources, the Pride Center is your home away from home. You can participate in Dawg Ally training, join student organizations like QSTONE or Pride Alliance, or celebrate your achievements at Lavender Graduation. Additionally, the Pride Center offers support groups, a resource library, and an alternative spring break trip to Washington, D.C., focused on LGBTQIA+ experiences. Reach out for guidance or resources—help is always available! Sign up for their newsletter here to stay updated on the latest events.

Student Transitions
Student Transitions at UGA aims to connect you to resources, help you find your place on campus, and support your needs as a incoming student.

First Generation Dawg Pack
Since you are the first in your family to attend college or your parents have some college experience but you still feel uncertain about navigating UGA, this pack is designed for you! Connect with fellow first-generation students, share your journey, and discover valuable resources and opportunities to help you fully embrace your UGA experience. Join the pack today here!