First Forward Institution logoIf you are a First-Generation Bulldog, welcome! You’re “First at the First” and we are excited to celebrate and support you!

Role models, mentors, and supporters are essential to the success of first-generation college students.

Use these stickers in your email signature! Click here to download the stickers.

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First-generation college students are defined as those students who come from families where their parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree. The Office for Student Success and Achievement (OSSA) is committed to supporting the success of first-generation students as they transition into and proceed through the University of Georgia. First-Gen bulldogs bring diverse perspectives and experiences to campus. They may also face unique challenges because they have not had parents who have completed a bachelor’s degree before.

OSSA works with a variety of campus partners to help support the success of first-generation college students. With campus partners, we plan events each year on November 8th in honor of the National First-Generation College Celebration day. In fact, we are so excited to celebrate our first-generation college students, we celebrate for a whole week and host -first-generation specific events throughout the year!

RESOURCES 

If you are a first-generation student at the University of Georgia, there are several resources for you. OSSA has a handbook resource (PDF) for first-generation families that can be picked up at Milledge Hall. This handbook features translations available in Spanish, Korean, and Chinese for students’ families and supporters. Stay tuned to this site as it is currently under construction. We are constantly adding resources and information specific to your journey and success! 

The University of Georgia is a proud Network Institution and FirstGen Forward member with NASPA since 2019. This designation recognizes institutions of higher education committed to improving experiences and advancing outcomes of first-generation college students. 

If you have questions about these resources, please contact Amy Warrington at [email protected] or 706-583-0724. 

First-Generation Celebration Week

It’s Sweet to be 1st at the First!

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 – 3:00 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!

Saturday, November 16
First-Gen Tailgate
Time TBD, Behind Milledge Hall
Network with alumni and cheer on the Dawgs over sandwiches and sweets at our first-gen tailgate!

Academic Achievement

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.

Accessibility and Testing

Accessibility and Testing at UGA is here to support students with disabilities by providing accommodations that help you succeed in your academic journey. As a student, they 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, they are 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

UGA black and red decorative imageMLC 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!

Get Connected

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?

  1. Click Student Account Services
  2. Log in with your UGA ID
  3. 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!

Gilman Scholarship Information Session

  • When: October 1
  • Where: MLC 274
  • Time: 4-5pm

Essay Review

  • When: Sept. 24, 30; Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10
  • Where: Office of Global Engagement (1324 S. Lumpkin St.)
  • Time: 1-4pm

Greek symbols at the University of GeorgiaGreek 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?

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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!
Health and Wellbeing

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS)

Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) at UGA offers a range of mental health services to support students, including individual and couples’ counseling, single-session therapy for focused goals, and group counseling for shared experiences. CAPS also provides limited psychiatric services and crisis intervention available 24/7 for urgent situations.

CAPS provides 24/7 support, you can call or walk-in and meet with a clinician
Call 706-542-2273
Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm
University Health Center, Second Floor

After 5 pm weekdays and on weekends and holidays, you can call CAPS and press #1 to connect with an on-call clinician.

How do I make an appointment?

If you have never been to CAPS, or it has been more than 6 months since your last appointment, you will need to schedule an initial screening appointment by using the online Patient Portal or by calling their office during business hours at 706-542-2273. If you are a current client and need to schedule an appointment, please contact their office. Only the initial screening appointment can be made by using the online Patient Portal.

**There is no out-of-pocket cost for most services for students who pay the health fee and bill insurance. **

If you or someone you know needs support, several resources include:

  • National Hopeline Network: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: Call 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)
  • Spanish: 1-800-273-TALK, Press 2
  • Military Veterans: 1-800-273-TALK, Press 1
  • Text: 988
  • Chat: https://988lifeline.org/chat/
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (1-800-799-7233)
  • LGBT Youth Suicide Hotline: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR (1-866-488-7386-7)
  • Crisis Text Line: Text “HOME” to 741741
    • Free, 24/7, Confidential
    • How it works: Someone texts into the Crisis Text line anywhere, anytime, about any type of crisis and a live, trained specialist responds. That specialist helps the person through confidential counseling and providing referral information.

Recreational Sports

UGA Recreational Sports offers students a variety of activities to stay active, reduce stress, and have fun. Located at the Ramsey Student Center, their inclusive environment and friendly staff are here to support your fitness and wellness needs, helping you balance college life with well-being.

Equipment Checkout: You can check out a variety of equipment, including indoor soccer balls, basketballs, rock climbing shoes, and more! Just bring your valid UGACard or UGA ID number, and you’re all set to enjoy the gear you need for a great time.

Ramsey Student Center
Hours: Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-8 p.m. (Closed home football game days.), & Sunday 2 p.m.-11 p.m.
The Ramsey Student Center has a 50-meter competition pool, an indoor track, 8 basketball courts, a 44-ft climbing wall, 10 racquetball courts, and over 25,000 square feet of weight-training space, offering plenty of options to stay active and healthy. Explore all the available options here!

Club Sports: The Club Sports Program at UGA includes over 40 unique, student-led clubs that cater to various sports and recreational interests. These voluntary clubs offer instructional, recreational, and competitive opportunities, with many teams competing against other universities at different levels. Explore all the active clubs here!

Intramural Sports: Get involved with intramural sports at UGA by participating in traditional team sports like basketball, flag football, soccer, and softball, as well as individual sports such as badminton, tennis, pickleball, and cornhole. To join these events, purchase the Competitive Sports Unlimited Play Pass for $35 per semester. For questions, call 706-542-5060 or email [email protected].

Fitness and Wellness
Group Fitness: UGA offers drop-in group fitness classes for students during the fall and spring semesters, led by certified student instructors. Members aged 18 and older can purchase a class pass for access to classes in our fitness studios and the natatorium diving well. Classes are first come, first served, with no pre-registration required.

Wellness Coaching: Interested in a wellness coach? They can help you identify your strengths and set goals for a healthier, well-balanced life. A wellness coach will support you in overcoming barriers to change and hold you accountable. Here’s a few ways they can assist you:

  • Improve stress and time management
  • Boost exercise motivation
  • Enhance sleep hygiene
  • Foster self-acceptance and self-care
  • Adopt healthier eating habits

Student Care and Outreach

Student Care and Outreach (SCO) at UGA is here to support you on your journey as a first-generation college student. They provide resources to help you with personal challenges, whether you’re dealing with stress, feeling overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to.

Academic Support:

  • Instructor Notifications: If something impacts your attendance, SCO can inform your instructors, but you need to provide documentation and discuss make-up options with them.
  • Hardship Withdrawals: If you face significant challenges like a medical emergency, SCO can help you withdraw from all your courses. This requires a written request and documentation.

Important Notes:

  • Routine absences (like doctor’s appointments) won’t qualify for notifications.
  • Always check how withdrawals may affect your financial aid and university status.

Location & Hours:

  • Where to Find Us: 318 Tate Student Center
  • Hours: Open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (walk-ins and phone calls welcome)
  • Contact: Call (706) 542-8479 or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

Reach out to SCO for guidance and support. They are here to help you succeed!

University Health Center

The University Health Center at UGA is committed to supporting your well-being as a student. It offers a variety of services, including medical care, counseling, wellness programs, and health education. Prioritizing your health is essential for your academic success, and the Health Center is here to help you thrive!

As a student at UGA, you have access to a variety of clinics to support your health needs. These include the Primary Care Clinic, Allergy Clinic, Dental Clinic, Gynecology Clinic, Laboratory, Massage Therapy, Pharmacy, Physical Therapy Clinic, Radiology, Sports Medicine, Travel Clinic, and Vision Clinic.

Helpful Hints to prepare for your appointments:

  1. Bring your medications or a list of your medications with you to your appointment.
  2. Arrive early for your appointment (20 minutes) to complete forms, update your information, check-in at the clinic, and have any previously ordered lab work completed.
  3. Anticipate that general medical visits will take approximately an hour of your time.
  4. Remember, it’s always ok to ask questions about your care, your safety, and about costs at the University Health Center.

AFTER HOURS NURSE LINE
If You Are A UHC Patient And Wish To Speak With A Nurse For Illness Or Injury Advice When The Health Center Is Closed, Call 706-542-1162 And Press 3.

University Police

The University of Georgia Police Department is here for students, working to keep our campus safe and welcoming. They’re dedicated to helping all students feel secure and comfortable as they navigate their college experience. Click here for resources!

For true emergencies please dial 911 immediately
For non-emergencies they can be reached at 706-542-2200

UGA Safe branded graphicDownload the UGA Safe App: The UGA Safe App is the university’s mobile safety app that offers important emergency information and resources. Download here.

Features:

  • Chat with UGA Police: Start a chat with UGA Police when calling isn’t an option. Quick links are also available to call UGA or Athens-Clarke County Police.
  • Mobile BlueLight: Share your location and call the UGA police. Your location sharing stays on while you move so the police know your location.
  • Friend Walk: Share your real-time location with a friend as you walk or drive to your destination.
  • Emergency Resources: Access information on emergency procedures, sharing info with 911, and campus shelter locations.
1st Gen Success

First Gen Mentor (UGA Mentor Program)

If you’re looking to connect with someone who truly understands the challenges of being a first-generation student, the UGA Mentor Program is here for you. With over 5,000 mentors, including many who were first-gen students themselves, you can find someone who shares your background and can provide personalized guidance.

**Once you activate your profile, you can select a mentor who is a first-gen student to offer insights from their own experiences, helping you reach your academic, personal, and career goals!

First Gen Celebration Week

It’s Sweet to be 1st at the First!

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!

Saturday, November 16th

First-Gen Tailgate
Time TBD, Behind Milledge Hall
Network with alumni and cheer on the Dawgs over sandwiches and sweets at our first-gen tailgate!

First Gen Graduation

We hold a special First-Generation Graduation ceremony to honor and celebrate your accomplishments. This event is all about recognizing your hard work, perseverance, and the journey you’ve taken to reach this important milestone. It’s a time for you, your family, and your community to celebrate your success.

Date:
Time:
Location:

Thrive

Not a student yet? Check this out:
Thrive at Georgia is a four-week residential program for first-year UGA students, offering two credit-bearing courses, including a service-learning class. You’ll build strong academic and social networks, with support from graduate student mentors who live on campus.

For more info, contact the Office for Student Success at [email protected] or follow @thrive_georgia on Instagram and Facebook.

Tri-Alpha

Tri Alpha logoJoin the University of Georgia’s first-generation honor society! For more information on Alpha Alpha Alpha, please email [email protected].

Apply Here

Undergraduate Students
Students qualify for induction into Tri-Alpha if they meet the following criteria:

  • The student has earned at least 30 credit/semester hours (or 45 quarter hours) towards an associate’s degree or baccalaureate degree (including half-time).
  • The undergraduate student has achieved an overall undergraduate GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
  • Neither of the student’s parents, nor step-parents, nor legal guardians, completed a bachelor’s degree.

Graduate Students

Graduate students qualify for induction into Tri-Alpha if they meet the following criteria:

  • Graduate students who are first-generation students can be admitted if they have completed the equivalent of at least one term of study (9 or more graduate credits) and have a GPA in their graduate program of at least 3.5.

Faculty and Staff

  • Faculty and staff qualify for induction into Tri-Alpha if they meet the following criteria:
    To qualify, they must have met the definition of a first-generation student listed above at the time they completed their bachelor’s degree. Faculty and staff must be willing to serve as mentors for first-generation students.
1st Gen Families

Acronym List

  • UGA places branded graphicCAPS: Counseling & Psychiatric Services
  • COA: Cost of Attendance
  • CURO: Center for Undergraduate Research Opportunities
  • CRN: Course Reference Number
  • D2L/eLC: Online program used by professors to post assignments, grades, readings, and discussions for class
  • DRC: Disability Resource Center
  • EL: Experiential Learning
  • GTA: Graduate Teaching Assistant
  • MLC: Miller Learning Center
  • MSP: Multicultural Services & Programs
  • OGE: Office of Global Engagement
  • OSAS: Office of Student Academic Services
  • OSFA: Office of Student Financial Aid
  • OSSA: Office for Student Success and Achievement
  • OTAS: Office of Transfer Academic Services
  • RSVP: Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention Center
  • SGA: Student Government Association
  • SLC: Science Learning Center

FERPA

FERPA, or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, is a law that protects your privacy as a student. At UGA, it means you have control over who can see your academic records, like your grades or financial information. As a first-generation student, understanding FERPA is important because it gives you the power to manage your own information. Only you (or someone you give permission to) can access your records, helping you stay in control of your education. Knowing your rights can make navigating college a little easier!

For more info, check out UGA’s FERPA page.

First Gen Graduation

We hold a special First-Generation Graduation ceremony to honor and celebrate your accomplishments. This event is all about recognizing your hard work, perseverance, and the journey you’ve taken to reach this important milestone. It’s a time for you, your family, and your community to celebrate your success.

Date:
Time:
Location:

Majors

Choosing a major at UGA is an important step in shaping your college experience and future career. For students, selecting a major can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it’s a key way to explore your interests and develop skills for success after graduation. UGA offers many majors, so you can find one that aligns with your passions and goals. Remember, it’s okay if you’re unsure at first—there are resources to help you make the best choice for you and your future!

For more guidance, explore UGA’s major options here.

Major Change Instructions- If you would like to change your major, please use the instructions below:

1.) Log into Athena
2.) Select Student Services
3.) Select Student & Registration
4.) Select My Programs
5.) To add a major:

  • Select Add Major
  • Select your new major from the dropdown menu
  • Select Next, then Confirm
    The new major will now appear under My Majors

6.) To remove a major:

  • Select Remove Major
  • Select the major you wish to remove from the dropdown menu
  • Select Next, then Confirm
  • The major will no longer appear under My Majors

New Student Orientation (NSO)

New Student Orientation at UGA is a key step in starting your college journey. It helps students get ready for both academic and social life at the university. Orientation provides important information about campus resources, classes, and how to get involved, helping you feel more prepared and confident. It’s also a great way to meet other students and build your community. Since Orientation is mandatory for all incoming students, attending ensures you’re on the right path from the start!

Parent and Family Portal: The UGA Parent and Family Portal is a great way for your family to stay connected and informed as you start college. It provides important updates, articles about UGA resources, and key dates to remember. Families who attend orientation are automatically added, making it easy to stay involved in your UGA journey. By completing their profile, your family can access all the information they need to support you throughout your college experience. Sign up here!

Learn more about what to expect at UGA Orientation.

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