First Generation Student Status: Clarifying Misconceptions and Defining Family

The question of whether you are a first-generation student when your sibling goes to college first can be somewhat complex, especially given the variations in definitions and criteria across institutions. This blog post aims to clarify common misconceptions and provide a clear understanding of what it means to be a first-generation student in the context of higher education.

Defining First Generation Student

First and foremost, the status of a first-generation student is determined by your parents' educational backgrounds, not by your sibling’s. This means that even if your sibling has already attended college first, you can still be classified as a first-generation student as long as neither of your parents have completed a bachelor’s degree. The term “first-generation student” generally refers to individuals whose parents did not attend college at all or did not earn a four-year degree.

Determining Eligibility for First Generation Status

Despite the lack of a universally accepted definition, most colleges and universities in the United States provide their own criteria for first-generation students. Here are some key points to consider:

If your college website has a clear definition of what constitutes a first-generation student, follow that. If there is an associated scholarship, it is advisable to contact the admissions office and request a written definition. This ensures clarity and consistency. In the absence of any clear definition, and especially if there are no scholarships involved, assume you are a first-generation student if neither of your parents have earned a bachelor’s degree.

Examples and Edge Cases

Let's explore some examples to further illustrate the concept:

Example 1: Same Parents, 1-Year Age Gap

Even if you and your sibling are only one year apart, and both share the same parents, you can both be classified as first-generation students. This is because your parents’ educational history is the determining factor, not the chronology of your siblings attending college.

Example 2: Multiple Siblings and Grandparents

If your sibling qualifies as a first-generation student and you have the same parents, and none of your grandparents attended college, then you are also considered a first-generation student. The focus is on the parents' educational background, regardless of the grandparents’ attendance.

Example 3: Fuzzy Area with 6-10 Year Age Gap

There is a bit of ambiguity when the age gap between siblings is 6 to 10 years. In this case, the majority of colleges still consider both individuals first-generation students, as long as neither has had a parent with a bachelor’s degree.

Complex Family Situations

In more complex family situations, such as cases where cousins or extended family members attend college, the exact definition of a first-generation student can become more nuanced. These cases often require a more detailed examination of who qualifies as part of the immediate family unit.

Overblown Hype and Misconceptions

While the term “first-generation student” has gained significant attention, much of the emphasis on this status can be attributed to certain advisors and institutions seeking to tap into this “victim” market. These advisors often capitalize on the potential challenges faced by first-generation students, pushing for more support services and resources. However, many first-generation students navigate their educational journey successfully through self-reliance and adherence to college resources.

From personal experience, being classified as a first-generation student did not necessarily mean one needed special coddling or different treatment. Many students from similar backgrounds managed to succeed through research, careful planning, and reliance on older students and university resources. Recognizing and utilizing available support systems can greatly enhance success in college without resorting to unnecessary special treatment.

In conclusion, the status of a first-generation student is primarily determined by the educational background of your parents, not by the chronological order in which siblings attend college. Understanding and correctly identifying your first-generation status can lead to more accurate scholarship and support opportunities. However, the term should not be used as a justification for overreliance on external support, as many students can and do succeed on their own.