Inside Higher Ed
Rethinking Support for First-Gen Sophomores
## Rethinking Support for First-Gen Sophomores
Navigating the sophomore year of college presents unique challenges for all students, but first-generation college students often face additional hurdles. The transition from freshman excitement to more demanding coursework and career exploration can be particularly jarring when lacking the familial experience and established networks many of their peers possess. Recognizing this, institutions are increasingly reevaluating their support systems for this vital demographic.
A promising model is emerging from the University of Michigan’s First Fellows program, which offers a comprehensive approach. Key components include dedicated mentorship—pairing students with experienced advisors—a tailored course designed to build essential skills, and a significant $4,000 investment for summer experiential learning opportunities. This combination aims to address academic, professional, and financial barriers simultaneously.
This shift toward robust sophomore-year support is timely, especially considering the ongoing challenges many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) face, as highlighted in our recent article, "More HBCU, MSI Students Have to Choose: College or Basic Needs?". Providing targeted resources during this pivotal year can significantly improve retention rates and set first-generation students on a path toward long-term success. The Michigan program’s structure offers a valuable blueprint for other institutions seeking to bolster their commitment to first-generation student achievement.
