First-in-Family Programs
Columbia College and Columbia Engineering are proud to have approximately 1,000 undergraduates who are the first in their families to attend college. First-in-Family (FiF) Programs encourages the success of every first-generation college student at Columbia via year-long academic support, professional development, and cultural enrichment opportunities.
What does it mean to be First-in-Family? First-in-Family is by definition a secondary identity. First-in-Family’s first-generation college students hail from every corner of the socioeconomic spectrum, every racial/ethnic background, and every area of study. For our program, “first-generation college student” is identified as a student whose parent(s)/guardian(s) have not received a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree or completed a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree later in life.
First-in-Family Programming The First-in-Family philosophy is "students don't know what they don't know." First-in-Family Programs introduces students to the possibilities available to them during and after their Columbia education.
- Academic Support: First-in-Family Programs, in collaboration with several partner offices, offers academic support including free tutoring and a robust schedule of academic seminars and workshops. For more information, please click the events tab (in the left hand column) or by visiting the Academic Resources page.
- Professional Development: First-in-Family Programs hosts “Career Outings” offering first-generation college students the opportunity to visit employers throughout New York City. From structural engineering to social entrepreneurship, First-in-Family students gain access to a wide network of industry leaders while going behind-the-scenes on worksites to learn the ins and outs of various fields.
The All About... Series: You don't have to figure out what's next on your own. The All About... Series brings First-in-Family (FiF) alumni and friends of FIF to Columbia to share what they wish they had known as students. Whether you're thinking about graduate school, exploring a career path, looking for your first apartment in New York City, or trying to make your next big decision, these sessions give you the chance to hear directly from people who have recently been where you are. Our alumni and FiF supporters offer honest advice, practical tips, and real stories about navigating life after your college years. More importantly, they answer your questions, share what worked (and what didn't), and help you feel more confident about whatever comes next. No matter where your interests take you, the All About... Series is designed to help you learn from our network of professionals the unique experience of being First-in-Family—and who are excited to help you navigate your own path.
- Cultural Enrichment: First-in-Family Programs believes arts and culture comprise a meaningful part of every college student’s education. Through partnerships with leading arts and performance venues, First-in-Family Programs offers complimentary tickets to theater, museums, and the performing arts throughout the academic year.
Contact Us
First-in-Family Programs may be reached via email at fif@columbia.edu; programming is announced weekly through the First-in-Family listserv. Students are also encouraged to contact any advising dean from the First-in-Family unit to learn more about First-in-Family resources.