Supporting our first-generation students
Starting university is a thrilling and transformative experience, but it can also feel complex or daunting at points, especially for first-generation students. ‘First-generation students’ are the first in their families to pursue higher education in the UK, often facing unique challenges and barriers along the way.
At Essex, we strive for diversity and inclusivity, and we recognise it is crucial that we cater for all our student groups. With this in mind, we actively seek to adapt our provisions to ensure tailored support for our first-generation students. On this page, we explore challenges faced by this community and practical support accessible from our services.
Understanding the challenges and practical support
Financial implications
Many first-generation students come from low-income backgrounds, making the cost of education a significant concern. Scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs can ease this burden, but navigating the application process is often challenging.
Find out more about the financial support available to students, or contact funding@essex.ac.uk.
Academic support
As a first-generation student, not being familiar with writing essays, or sitting exams in a UK University is common. This can make someone feel overwhelmed, and it can impact on their educational achievements. Some students might also not be aware of how to access academic resources or mentors who can guide them throughout their studies.
Fortunately, at Essex we have comprehensive Academic Skills support available, provided by our Skills for Success team and Library Services. Students, can also access support from their tutors. Tutors are available year round, and you can book a 1:1 at any point for a general chat about understanding university life, or focused, individualised support with any aspect of your studies.
Wellbeing
We understand that being a first-generation student comes with its pressures, and we want to ensure that all our students receive the appropriate emotional and mental wellbeing support.
The Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service provides free, confidential help and guidance for any concerns that anyone might have during their time at Essex. We can advise and signpost to the support available for mental and emotional health, disability support, academic concerns, financial worries, and accommodation issues.
Careers advice
At Essex, we recognise that is essential for us to provide our first-generation students with advice and support to help navigate a path from education to workforce successfully. Our Careers Service can offer a wealth of support to jump-start our students’ careers. We include career-focused modules across all our degree and provide mentoring opportunities for all students.
Our Careers Service also run the Breaking Barriers programme which is our career exploration provision for students who are first in their family to go to university or from low-income households. Find out more by visiting our dedicated webpage.
More for you
Supporting first-generation students in our University is a priority for us, not just a matter of access. We strive to ensure our students’ success and empowerment through active engagement with our communities.
If you have any specific questions or would like more advice, email askthehub@essex.ac.uk and we’ll do our best to help.
