Career Tips for First-Generation Students

Embrace Your Identify

  • Being a first-generation college student shows resilience, independence, and determination—qualities that employers value. Own your story and use it to showcase your strengths.

Build Your Support Network

  • You don’t have to navigate your career path alone.
  • Connect with faculty, staff, alumni, and peers who understand your experience.
  • Seek out mentors and join career-focused student groups.

Use Campus Resources

  • Take full advantage of the Center for Careers, Life, and Service:
    • Resume and cover letter help
    • Internship and job search guidance
    • Career exploration appointments
    • Interview preparation
  • Start early—being prepared is the best.
  • Look for other resources and connections on campus that could serve as a valuable networking source.

Understand Workplace Expectations

  • There’s no “handbook” for professional norms—but you can learn:
    • How to write a professional email
    • What to expect in an interview
    • How to network and advocate for yourself
    • When and how to negotiate job offers

Gain Experience Early

  • Internships, research, volunteer work, and part-time jobs help you explore interests and build marketable skills. Not sure where to start? The CLS can help you identify opportunities that fit your goals.

Look for other Support

  • Apply for potential Internship Funding
  • Unpaid or low-paid internships shouldn’t hold you back.

Learn to Tell Your Story

  • Craft a strong personal narrative that highlights your background, values, and goals. Use it in your resume, cover letters, LinkedIn profile, and interviews.

Explore with Openness

  • You don’t have to have everything figured out. Try different roles, industries, and experiences. Career paths aren’t linear—discovery is part of the process.

Tap Into Specialized Program

  • Ask about opportunities designed for first-gen or underrepresented students:
  • Employer diversity recruitment programs
  • Graduate school preparation resources
  • National conferences or career treks
  • TRIO, McNair, or other federal programs

Celebrate Your Wins

  • Each step forward—updating your resume, attending a career fair, landing an internship—is a success. Be proud of how far you’ve come and keep building from there.