U1.0 is a program designed to engage with and support first-generation students at UWM and its branch campuses. We provide assistance to help first-generation students get acclimated to life on campus. U1.0 regularly hosts events, both celebratory and educational, in order to connect with and support first-generation students in their academic, personal, and professional endeavors. At UWM, about 38% of the undergraduate student population is identified as first-generation!
Frequently Asked Questions
While there is no universal definition for “first-generation college student”, we define first-generation as “students whose parent(s)/guardian(s) have not completed a 4-year degree at a college or university in the United States.” Regardless of definition, the First-Generation Resource Center here at UW-Milwaukee welcomes you!
You are still first-generation! The important part is that your parent(s)/guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor’s degree in the United States. That makes you a first-generation student!
At UW-Milwaukee, approximately 38% of our student body is self-identified as first-generation. You are not alone!
First-generation college students face many unique challenges that affect their access and success in college. Some key barriers are lack of financing, lack of academic preparation, and lack of encouragement and support to attend college. For immigrants and English Language Learners (ELL), these barriers often include limited English proficiency, as well as lack of knowledge about the American system of higher education. Many often require more developmental coursework and have less confidence in their academic abilities. They tend to perform at lower levels and have lower persistence rates compared to their peers as they are less likely to engage in academic and social experiences associated with success in college.
Yes, please visit our scholarships page for more information.
UW-Milwaukee’s first-generation community, U1.0, is sponsored by the First-Generation+ Resource Center (FG+RC) and is dedicated to providing support and advocacy to first-generation students.
U1.0 offers various programs and resources such as the annual U1.0 Kickoff, First Gen Week, biweekly workshops and the U1.0 Textbook Scholarship. We also offer our “Putting Them First” training for faculty and staff which provides a comprehensive look on what it means to be a first-generation student. For more information, please contact the First-Generation+ Resource Center at 414-229-7234 or email uwmfirstgen@uwm.edu
Yes! U1.0 offers many programs and workshops throughout the academic year. Your participation will allow you the opportunity to meet other UW-Milwaukee community members who are also first-generation. For event details, please refer to the calendar on our site or follow us on Instagram: @uwmfgrc.
The FG+RC is ready and willing to hear your ideas! Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged. We can be reached at uwmfirstgen@uwm.edu or 414-229-7234. For event details, please refer to the calendar on our site or follow us on Instagram: @uwmfgrc.