First-Generation Scholars Program

This program is dedicated to supporting first-generation scholars with innovative programming that amplifies their diverse voices and builds community at 鶹ѰBoulder. Students will have opportunities to build strong academic and social foundations for their collegiate journey.

“The programs (academic and financial) at 鶹Ѱhelped me build capabilities and confidence to succeed. Thank you for providing this support.”
–Rajesh Rajchal,First Generation Scholarship recipient

We supportfirst-generation scholars by:

  • Creating visibility.We highlight and center the experiences of first-generation students, faculty and staff across campus.
  • Enhancing strengths.We promote and host regular academic, professionaland community-building events that center the strengths, skillsand diverse experiences of first-generation students.
  • Fostering a sense of community and celebration.We create spaces of connection, mentorshipand community among students who identify as first generation.

Note that while our primary role is to support scholars, all first-generation students can see thecampus resources listed below.

  • Partnerships.We create synergistic relationships with campus partners to strengthen and expand resources for first-generation students.
  • Celebration.Wefoster a sense of belonging by celebrating first-generation identities and community through authentic self-expression.
  • Transformation.We design and implement community engagement and career-based opportunities for first-generation students and other identities.
  • Graduation.We develop programs that build community and aid in the retention, progression and graduation of first-generation students at 鶹ѰBoulder.
  • First-Gen Fridays – the first Friday of each month
  • Financial literacy and money management
  • Career readiness and professional development
  • Community building – mixers, movie nights, etc.
  • First generation faculty and staff directory
  • First Buffs Peer Mentoring Program
  • Holistic leadership development and engagement opportunities
  • Academic resources
  • First Generation Scholarship (2020–beyond)
  • First Generation Grant (2018–20)
  • Free swag – shirts, water bottles, pennants, pens, stickers
  • Connection to other first-generation offices and programs

Updated First Generation Scholarship Requirement for Spring 2026

To maintain your scholarship eligibility, you are required to:

  • Attend6 totalFirst-Gen Scholars eventsduring the 2025–2026 academic year.
  • Meet with the First-Generation Scholars Coordinator, Alma Apolonio Bernal, at least once during the academic year.
  • Schedule via Buff Portal Advising, I should be showing up as part of your success team.
  • Maintain all other eligibility and SAP requirements.

For this spring 2026 semester only, you are required to:

  • Meet with the First-Generation Scholars Coordinator (Alma Bernal) at least once this semester.
  • Schedule via Buff Portal Advising, I should be showing up as part of your success team.
  • You are not required to attend events this spring, but it's highly encouraged you attend. All of our events are free and open to ALL students.
  • All other eligibility and SAP requirements remain the same.

Scholars participating in any of the following programs remain exempt from First-Gen Scholars Program requirements, as long as they are fully participating in their other scholarship program(s):

  • Campos (previously BOLD) Center
  • LatticeScholars Program
  • CMCI Diversity Scholars
  • Diverse Scholars Program (Leeds)
  • McNeill Program
  • Miramontes
  • Multicultural Leadership Scholars Program
  • President's Leadership Class
  • Sharer Scholars Program
  • TRiO Student Support Services

Offerings

First Generation Scholarship
First-Generation Faculty and Staff Directory

Academic Resources

General Scholarships
Tutoring Services
Undergrad Research Opportunities
Campus Research Centers

Other First-Generation Campus Programs and Initiatives

鶹ѰLEAD Alliance
National First-Gen Celebration Day