Center for Student Success

The F1RST Newsletter

The inaugural issue of "The F1RST", Oberlin's newsletter for the first-generation and income-eligible (FGIE) campus community, began in fall of 2023. Written by the CSS Peer Mentors with the aim of fostering community, the virtual newsletter highlights events and activities on campus for first-generation and income-eligible students. Each issue contains tips and tricks for thriving in college - and at Oberlin specifically - and uncovers some of the unknown aspects of college life for first-generation students.

The newsletter also shares the stories of current first-generation and income-eligible staff and faculty, and their experiences with navigating college. Each issue contains an FGIE staff or faculty interview, highlighting their academic and professional success strategies. "Ask for help and clarification on everything you have questions about. Don't be afraid to ask for help!" says Mark Zeno, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Residence Life & Auxiliary Services. 

If you're interested in joining the FGIE Oberlin campus community as a first-generation or income-eligible student, staff, faculty, or alumni, let us know. You'll be added to our mailing list for each issue of "The F1RST" and FGIE campus events.

First generation tips and tricks