Harvard Chan FirstGen Mentoring Network

Who are First-Generation (FirstGen) Students?

First-Generation students are those whose parents and/or guardians are the first in their family to earn a college degree or pursue graduate-level education. This experience often extends beyond undergraduate studies, continuing as students move into graduate or professional programs.

At Harvard Chan School, FirstGen students are present across a wide range of academic programs. To support their unique needs, the Office for Student Affairs has developed the FirstGen Network, a pilot program designed to bridge the challenges these students may face. The program is currently available to students pursuing a Master of Science (SM) degree in specific programs (60-80 credits).

Harvard Chan FirstGen Mentoring Network focuses on two key objectives:

1. Peer Mentorship:

• Mentor-Mentee Pairing: Second-year SM students’ mentor incoming FirstGen students, providing guidance on navigating academic and campus life.
• Initial Meeting: A virtual or in-person introduction (for Boston-based pairs) to discuss graduate school life and acclimate to the city.
• Structured Fall Meetings: Three scheduled sessions addressing various academic and personal development topics.

2. Building Social Capital:

• Networking Opportunities facilitate connections to enhance both personal and professional networks.
• Lunch & Learn Sessions cover topics such as imposter syndrome and other challenges faced by FirstGen students, promoting community and resource sharing.

Interested? Please complete the interest form.