There is something special about being the FIRST…

…especially being the first in your family to attend and graduate from college. I’m First!, an initiative of UStrive, is an online community celebrating first-generation college students.

Check out video stories from first-gen students, read student blogs and discover colleges that have special programs to support their first-gen students. We feature YouTube video testimonials from first-gen students and graduates from across the country. Watch some below or share your own story.

Familial Love

Leaving home was easy for me; it meant freedom, independence, and a new beginning as I went to a school nine hours away. As much as I loved my...

The Law of Equivalent Exchange

Have you ever heard of the law of equivalent exchange? It's a concept law from an anime and reads, "Humankind cannot gain anything without first...

Bear Beginnings

My freshman year was full of ups and downs. I feel like the large amount of downs that occurred were all more than worth it for how much they built...

Choice, Acceptance, and On

I never felt I was good at anything in high school; I had no special talents or skills, no specific or niche interests, and all I had were some...

Love Letter to My Past Self

Love is in the air, and in the spirit of the season, I wanted to write a love letter to myself, 2 years ago, in my senior year of high school. Dear...

Catherine, #firstgen student at @WUSTL, has some tips on getting letters of recommendations for college admissions, scholarships, etc.!: imfirst.org/tips-for-lette… pic.twitter.com/ctD4oHOYxy