GenFirst!
Welcome to your community of first-generation students, faculty and staff.
At Bucknell, many of our faculty, staff and alumni are the first in their families to graduate from a four-year college or university.
Wherever you see a "come talk to me" poster, there is a friendly first-generation faculty or staff member who would love to meet and chat with you. Knock and introduce yourself. We are thrilled to welcome you to our community of first-generation students, faculty and staff. We have a fabulously fun, informative and enriching schedule of events planned just for you.
Bucknell's Commitment to First-generation Students
As a first-generation student, you’ve already proven your talent, drive and persistence — qualities that helped you earn your place at Bucknell. We value these strengths because they enrich the campus community and inspire others around you.
At the same time, we know that being first gen can mean navigating college in unique ways, and that comes with both opportunities and challenges. That's why GenFirst is here for you. We’ll connect you with mentors, resources and a community that understands what it means to be first gen, so you can make the most of your Bucknell experience. Your success strengthens our entire campus, and we’re proud to walk alongside you on this journey.
GenFirst! Mentors
You won't want to miss out on having a GenFirst! faculty/staff mentor. No matter what class year you're in, or whether or not you already have a mentor or adviser, a mentor who, like you, is also first gen, is an incredible asset. To get started, check out our mentors, select your top four choices, and then complete the Choose a Mentor Request Form as soon as possible so that we can partner you with a mentor.
Alpha Alpha Alpha — First-gen Honor Society
Alpha Alpha Alpha, or Tri-Alpha, is a national honor society for first-generation college students. Students can qualify for induction into Bucknell's chapter of Tri-Alpha if they will, upon graduation, become the first members of their immediate family to earn a bachelor's degree. Eligible inductees must also meet additional requirements for completed coursework and grade point average. Graduate students are also eligible for admission. For more information about the Tri-Alpha honors society, visit https://www.1stgenhonors.org.
Annual GenFirst Events
First Generation College Celebration
Mark your calendars! Nov. 8 is First Generation College Celebration Day. This national event aims to raise awareness of first-generation student experiences, recognize accomplishments of first-generation college students and strengthen relationships among the first-gen campus community.
Commencement Celebration
Peers, mentors and family are invited to an exclusive celebration of your achievements as we recognize your dedication and resilience as a first-generation graduate. More information on this event will be available closer to commencement.