First Generation Programs | Orientation, Transition, and Family Programs | SUNY Buffalo State University

Students at the Commuter Connections Event

Members of Greek Life

Student and Family with Benji in Big Chair

Student and Family at Spring Open House

Students in the Plaza

What It Means to Be First-Generation

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

Being a first-generation college student means you’re the first in your family to take this incredible step toward earning a college degree. It’s a proud milestone—but it can also feel overwhelming when you’re learning to navigate the process on your own. From college applications to campus life, there’s a lot that might feel unfamiliar.

That’s where we come in. Our goal is to make the college experience easier to understand and more accessible for first-gen students and their families. We help you build confidence, understand your options, and celebrate every step toward your future.

First-Gen Week 2026

To kickoff our First-Generation Week, we are starting with a social media campaign on Instagram! Head over and follow @lifeatbuffstate for further details!

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Come join the SLE office and write your reason for being a first-generation college student! You will have an opportunity to write your "why" and post it on our glass wall.

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Come join Buffalo State Alumni and professionals from the surrounding area for a night of networking and putting yourself first!

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Come join SLE in a First-Gen Swag Giveaway! First things first, is treating yourself! Come while supplies last.

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For our last day of first-gen week we are talking about all the feels! Being a first-generation college student is not easy, so let's talk about it!

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Additional Information

Being a first-generation college student isn’t just about being the first to attend college—it’s about changing the story for yourself and your family. First-gen students pave the way for future generations, proving that higher education is possible no matter where you start. Their experiences bring resilience, perspective, and determination to college campuses across the country. Recognizing the importance of being first-gen means celebrating courage, honoring family sacrifice, and creating opportunities that reach far beyond one individual. Every first-generation student represents progress, hope, and the power of education to transform lives.

A first-generation college student is typically someone whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college degree. This means you’re the first in your family to take the step toward earning a bachelor’s degree.
Some colleges also consider you first-gen if:

Your parents attended some college but did not graduate with a four-year degree
You were raised by someone who did not attend college
You’re navigating the college process independently without family experience to guide you

Every school may define “first-generation” a little differently, but the heart of it is the same—you’re leading the way and creating a new path for your family’s future.

Success as a first-generation college student starts with believing that you belong. While the path may feel unfamiliar, there are proven strategies and resources that can help you thrive. Build strong connections with mentors, professors, and campus support offices—they’re there to guide you. Learn to ask questions, use academic and financial aid resources early, and find community with other first-gen students who share your experience. Most importantly, remember that your background is your strength. Your perseverance, independence, and motivation are what will help you not just succeed in college but lead the way for others to follow.

First-Generation Statistics

38%

of undergraduate students are identified as being first-generation

37%

of Buffalo State's incoming class identify as First Generation

27%

of first-generation college students graduate within four years of starting their studies

23%

of first-generation college students pursue graduate studies

88%

of first-generation college students are more likely to be employed, earn higher wages, and twice as likely to be civically engaged