First-Generation Initiatives

First-Gen Collective

The First-Gen Collective is a Peer Mentorship Program created to provide support and resources to new incoming students through Peer to Peer mentoring. Upperclassmen who identify as a First-Generation college student will be paired with 3-5 incoming freshman who also identifies as a First-Gen. Peer Mentors will be able to connect with other first-gen students and provide support to their mentees through personal growth, academic success, and social support within the First-Gen Peer Mentorship Program.

Be a First-Gen Mentor

Applicant Requirements: 

  • Identify as a First-Generation college student
  • Obtained at least 24 credits
  • Attended Montclair State University at least 2 semesters
  • Minimum 3.0+ GPA

Program Requirements: (Additional details will be shared during Training)

  • Commit to being a Volunteer Mentor for the full academic year
  • Required to meet with your assigned mentee(s) in person at least twice, both formal and informal, a semester
  • Required to commit Networking Hours (3-4 hours) per semester
  • Required to connect with your mentee at least 2x per month via text, e-mail, social media
Mentor Benefits: 
  • Develop your leadership skills
  • Be a resource to someone that was once in your shoes
  • Build new relationships
  • Make a difference
  • Add to your resume
  • Receive First-Gen Swag
  • Receive a stipend for each semester served as a Mentor

Become a FIRST-GEN Mentor

Be a First-Gen Mentee
FIRST-GEN MENTEES
If you are a freshman and you’re interested in getting matched with a Peer Mentor, fill out the interest form below.
Mentee Requirements:
  • Currently a first-generation freshman, first-year student
  • Enrolled as a full-time student
  • Demonstrate commitment to growth
  • Maintain full-time enrollment and good academic standing

Commitments

  • Kickoff Brunch/Orientation
  • Meet with mentor twice a month (one formal meeting, one informal)
  • Networking Hour/Connects (3-4 throughout the year)
  • Advancement Workshops (2-3 throughout the year)
  • End of year celebration

Benefits

  • Academic support
  • Program events and activities
  • Career counseling
  • 1-on-1 peer mentoring
  • Regular check-ins
  • Real-world connections
  • Beyond the classroom/campus experiences
  • Professional and personal development

Additional Information: 

  • Spots are limited!
  • Availability is determined by a first come, first serve basis.
  • Commitment is expected! Your spot will be given to someone else if you fail to participate with your mentor.