First-Generation College Students

Welcome to our First-Generation Bulldogs!

Butler defines our first-generation students as those whose parents or guardians have not earned a four-year bachelor’s degree. Some may have a parent who completed a few years of college, others may have older siblings or cousins that have graduated, others may have family friends that have degrees. Regardless of your story, you’re a first-gen student. While you’re a diverse group, there is a lot that you have in common. You are resilient, passionate, and ready to solve a problem. The hidden curriculum of college policies, procedures, jargon, and expectations can be difficult. We’re here to help. Check out the ways to find support, connection, and celebration as you progress through your college journey.

First-Gen College Celebration Day

November 8 is the national First-Generation College Celebration day celebrated across the country. On Butler’s campus, look for a week of programming aimed towards celebration and connection!

First-Gen Dawgs student organization

The First-Gen Dawgs student organization’s mission is to unite, empower, and build confidence among first-generation students, celebrating their unique experiences and creating a space for achieving excellence in higher education together. Join the organization today!

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firstgendawgs@butler.edu
Though being able to achieve many academic goals throughout my professional career, I am most proud of the consistency and motivation I have kept along the way.

Citlaly Duran-Caballero

International Business double majoring in Accounting

Do not be afraid to reach out regarding an opportunity. It can be scary to think about receiving a “no”, but putting yourself out there can open so many opportunities for the future.

Hayden Pendleton

Biology Major on the pre-med track with minors in Chemistry and Medical Spanish

Coming into college, there will be so many things presented to you about opportunity. Don’t see it as pressure; see it as motivation, and explore what you feel led to explore. It is okay to say no, but don’t let that be your only answer.

Jaleyscha “Karmani” Burton

Business Management Studies

I know it seems so scary, but once you make that first move, it gets so much easier. College is all about breaking out of your comfort zone, and you never know who your next best friend or mentor will be unless you socialize with others.

Natalie Goo

Anthropology and Psychology combined major, Spanish double major, minor in Museum Studies and Photography

Social media

Want to show your first-generation support and pride? Download an email signature, or contact Josiah Hatfield for a small office door sign.

Email Signature
Office Door Sign Examples
jhatfield@butler.edu

First-Gen Forward

Butler University is proud to be designated a FirstGen Forward Network member. Butler joins a community of 470 institutions dedicated to advancing academic success, fostering inclusive environments, and supporting the unique needs of first-generation students.

FirstGen Forward launched in June 2017 with the mission of being the premier source of evidence-based practices, professional development, and knowledge creation for the higher education community to advance the success of first-generation students. In continuing this mission, the organization launched the FirstGen Forward Network, which offers a national model for scaling holistic first-generation student success by engaging and empowering institutions.

Logo with the words "First Forward Institution" surrounded by "Center for First-Generation Student Success."

Resources

Internal

External

Scholarship Websites

Where to start

Questions about first-generation programs? Want to get connected with a first-generation faculty/staff member? Reach out to Josiah Hatfield to get started!