First in the Family

A virtual program for parents and families of first-generation college students

Is your Bucknell student the first in your immediate family to attend a four-year college or university? We invite you to join First in the Family, a special series of virtual sessions that will introduce you to academic and student life at Bucknell.

Running throughout the summer, these sessions complement the topics covered in our many Virtual Summer Information Sessions, with special emphasis on information for parents and families of first-generation students as well as those sending a student to college for the first time. The program will conclude with a special in-person reception on Wednesday, Aug. 21, to welcome new first-generation students and families to the Bucknell community.

What to Expect

By participating in First in the Family, you'll:

  • Gain inside knowledge about life at Bucknell – inside and outside of the classroom

  • Connect with people on campus who are here to help you and your student

  • Get advice on how to best support your student throughout their college journey

  • Learn what to expect this fall and beyond as your student settles into their life at Bucknell.

Program Schedule

We're committed to ensuring a smooth transition to Bucknell not only for new students but also for parents and family, who are important members of our extended campus community. Join one of our First in the Family sessions to learn more about life at Bucknell and how you can be part of your student’s college journey.

  • Overview of Academic Life at Bucknell
    Topics to be covered will include textbook ordering, reading a syllabus, academic support resources, FERPA and more.
  • Overview of Student Life at Bucknell
    Get to know some of the staff from Student Affairs and Diversity & Inclusion and learn how they provide holistic support to help students meet their personal goals and achieve academic success. Students and families will leave knowing who to turn to with questions during the year.
  • First in the Family Reception
    All first-generation students and families, as well as First in the Family participants, are invited to join us for an information reception. Enjoy light refreshments, build your network of new families and Bucknell faculty and staff, and receive a personal welcome from President John Bravman.
    • Wednesday, Aug. 21, at 11 a.m. (Full details will be shared on the Orientation schedule)

More information about this program will be shared here in June; check back regularly for updates.

Please contact orientation@bucknell.edu with any questions.