First-Generation / Low-Income

Updated September 12, 2023

The First Generation Low Income (FGLI) team aims to foster a sense of community among first-generation college students in Adams. We strive to create a safe space where first-gen students can come together to discuss the unique challenges first-gen students face and to celebrate the valuable contributions and perspectives they bring to Harvard. In addition to community building events, we connect first-gen students to resources at the College, share academic and career opportunities, and host workshops on practical issues ranging from financial literacy to wellness. Lastly, the FGLI tutors on this page are available to talk with you individually. Please feel free to reach out to any of us. You are not alone!

According to the Harvard Financial Aid Office, a first-generation college student —or “first-gen” for short—is the first generation of their immediate family to graduate from a four-year college or the equivalent. We have expanded on this definition to include students who are on substantial financial aid and who come from high schools that are underrepresented in the Ivy League. There is incredible diversity in the first-gen experience, and we encourage you to join us if this identity resonates with you.

 

Important Links

STUDENT-LED COMMUNITIES

  • The EdMobilizer Group, a group of first-gen college student leaders from across the Ivy League and beyond united to support and build community for first-gen, low-income students, including via the two largest first-generation, low-income student conferences in the country: the 1vyG Conference and the EdMobilizer FLI Conference featuring hundreds of students, administrators, and organizations.
  • Harvard Primus, a student-led organization that seeks to ease the transition to college, build a strong and supportive community, and provide a voice for first-gen students.
  • First Generation Harvard Alumni (FGHA), a Harvard Alumni Association shared interest group dedicated to mentoring, advocating for, and providing networking connections to first-generation Harvard students and alumni.

HARVARD-LED INITIATIVES

  • Harvard Financial Aid Initiative (HFAI), which supports students through financial aid and special programs like the Student Events Fund, the Winter Coat Fund, and community events like HFAI dinners.
  • First Generation Advising Faculty, first generation faculty are those who are interested in working with students from diverse backgrounds.
  • Harvard Next Gen Initiative, a cross-Harvard group utilizing technology to align, consolidate, and enhance institutional support and community building pathways for all Harvard undergraduate and graduate students who are the first in their families to pursue a degree in the U.S and/or are from under-resourced or underserved backgrounds.