First-Gen Stole Pick Up

Spring 2024 graduating students may obtain a First-Generation Stole at the Cap & Gown Pick up. Please refer to the Commencement website for information on dates, times, and location for cap and gown pick up.

Commencement Website

First-Generation Students

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Graphic of Colorado and India's flag, surrounded by graduation caps, stars, and other world flags

Finding Belonging Thousands of Miles From Home

New Student and Family Engagement's Shivani Kakarla writes about how growing up in India has helped her in her roles as a Graduate Assistant and Peer Advisor at CU Denver by teaching her how to adapt.

Graphic of a treasure map for the future containing different areas of study

Planning Your Future: Tips From a UNIV Instructor

When it comes to navigating your future, it's okay to explore different interests and change your mind. CU Denver UNIV instructor and LRC program coordinator Zeyna Aouad gives tips for thinking about the future.

Change and Growth in College: From Undergrad to Graduate School

A lot of us start college thinking we have it figured out, but come to realize we actually don't—and that's okay! PAL Aubrey Hoffman-Maroney shares her own experience and explains how change and growth go hand-in-hand.

The Value of Mentorship in Building a Community

Finding your people is a huge part of the college experience. Peer Advocate Leaders (PALs) work with new students and help them to build foundations for their time at CU Denver—they also create their own community in the process!

You may be wondering what exactly a first-generation college student is. First-generation means that neither of your biological nor adoptive parents completed a four-year college degree.

There are many opportunities available to help first-generation students have a successful college experience. We're here to provide you with the tools you need to take advantage of those opportunities, excel in the classroom, transition to college, succeed once you get to campus, and graduate on time.