First-Generation Families
Congratulations! We are glad you are here!
We are excited that your family has joined the Vanderbilt community. It is our hope that our office can connect you to the necessary resources and support services and answer any questions you may have about Vanderbilt.
At Vanderbilt University, first-generation college students – those from families in which neither parent has earned a four-year undergraduate degree – are called “Vandy Firsts.” First-generation students are an integral part of our University community, contributing to the great diversity and the cultural and intellectual life of our high-achieving undergraduate student population. Vanderbilt University celebrates the abilities, strength, and resilience of our first-generation students and their family members, and we look forward to seeing you on campus.
Vanderbilt Parent and Family Programs is here to support your family every step of the way. Reach out to us anytime: parents@vanderbilt.edu.
A good place to start: The Road to Vanderbilt. Inside, you’ll find a comprehensive source of information specifically curated for first-year students and their families. It outlines the requirements you must complete prior to your arrival on campus, important guidance about your transition into the university, and the many opportunities and resources Vanderbilt has to offer.
Network First-Gen
Network First-Gen is a part of the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Their mission is to help students and parents to navigate the “hidden curriculum” of universities and colleges successfully which impacts first-generation students adversely.
More to explore
College Terminology
We understand that this process can be overwhelming at times, and we want to make sure you are as informed as possible. Please view our guide of common words and phrases that you may come across during your student’s time at Vanderbilt University.
Orientation
Orientation offers activities and programs for new students to introduce them to the living-learning communities of their houses and The Ingram Commons, the faculties and academic classes of their schools, the norms and values of the Vanderbilt community, upper-division students and their organizations, and Nashville. Additionally, there will be Parent and Family Orientation sessions for parents to learn about the intricacies of Vanderbilt University.
Connect on Social Media
Join our Vanderbilt Parents & Families Facebook Group
FGLI at Vanderbilt
First-Generation Low-Income students often experience college as a different world than what they are familiar with, one that they are not culturally, socially, or financially prepared for. Intentional inclusivity, mindful programming, and financial support can help first-generation low-income students feel less like visitors at our University, and instead, feel like they belong and deserve to have the tools and confidence they need to truly get the most out of their Vanderbilt journey.
FirstVU
FirstVU is a student-run organization to support, celebrate and empower first-generation students at Vanderbilt University. FirstVU is led by Peer Advocates who are also first-generation students and serve on the executive board of the FirstVU student organization. The Mission of FirstVU is to provide support and foster a strong community where first-generation students feel empowered and supported as part of the Vanderbilt community. FirstVU advocates will guide students to campus resources in the following areas:
- Admissions
- Student Life
- Academics
- Faculty and Instructors
- Career Guidance
Campus contacts
| Office for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion | Housing and Residential Experience
4100 Branscomb Quadrangle
|
Office of Student Accounts
615-322-6693 |
Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships
(615) 322-3591 or (800) 288-0204 |
Still need help finding what you’re looking for? We’ll be happy to point you in the right direction! Feel free to send us an email at parents@vanderbilt.edu.