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Get to Know the Program

First in the Family is a mentoring program at the St. George campus, which provides structured support to students making their transition to University. You can be in your first or second year of study at U of T.

To learn more about the program, please read the information below. 
 


What Does "First Generation" Mean?

The First in the Family program is designed specifically for first-year and second-year students at the St. George campus who identify as "first generation." You are a "first generation" student if:

  • Your parents or guardians did not complete post-secondary education in Canada, i.e., a college, university or apprenticeship program
  • Your parents attended post-secondary education outside of Canada are eligible for the program
  • Your sibling(s) attended a post-secondary institution, but your parents or guardian(s) did not
  • Note: 1 in 5 students on the St. George campus are first-generation!
  • If you have any questions, please contact us

 

What Can I expect From the First in the Family Program?

The transition from high school to university can be exciting, but it can also be full of challenges. First-generation students often face additional challenges - such as not having the same kind of support or advice from family or community members.

The First in the Family program provides you with some structured support, so that you can succeed at the University of Toronto. It also gives you the opportunity to develop your skills and join a fun community on campus.

  • You will be connected with an upper-year mentor, who shares your broad academic field (in the Arts, Sciences, or Commerce)
  • You will meet with a small learning community throughout the winter term
  • You will develop friendships with other first-generation students
  • You will participate in bi-weekly workshops and seminars that will help you develop academic skills - such as notetaking, time management, and test preparation - so that you can succeed in your classes
  • You will learn how to navigate the University's many resources and services and will also engage with its vibrant student life
  • If you're a mature student, you will be connected with a mature student mentor and meet informally with other mature students to better acquaint yourself with the University of Toronto

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Am I a Right Fit for the First in the Family Program?

  • You can be starting your first or second year in September 2011

  • We're looking for students who identify as first generation, as defined above

  • We're looking for students in the Faculty of Arts and Science, but you can belong to any college, live in a University residence or commute from home

  • We're looking for students who want to get an academic leg-up, who want to make friends, and who want to build community at the University of Toronto

What if I Don't Meet the Requirements Listed Above?

  • The program is designed for first-generation students, but if you don't meet the strict definition listed above you can still participate in events and workshops through the program
  • There are other mentoring programs at the University of Toronto that we will help you get connected to
  • There are many bursary programs run through all 7 colleges that are meant for students, regardless if they meet the specific requirements listed above

  • Please contact us for further details

Join the First in the Family Mentoring Program

Join the First in the Family Program


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First in the Family Peer-Mentor Program
Academic Success Centre
214 College Street, Main Floor
416-978-0480
firstgen@utoronto.ca
Facebook: First in the Family
Twitter: @UofTFirstGen


Debbie Molnar
Program Coordinator
Academic Success Centre
416-978-0480
debbie.molnar@utoronto.ca

Meghan Litteljohn
Learning Strategist
Academic Success Centre
416-978-4525
meghan.litteljohn@utoronto.ca