Navigating College as a First-Gen Student: Embracing Identity and Seeking Support

Brandon Kirkwood
May 13
3 min read

Updated: May 14

Navigating the journey of higher education can be challenging, especially for first-generation college students. For students from BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, immigrant, and low-income communities, the struggle is often magnified. Balancing family expectations, cultural identity, and academic pressures at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) like Boston University (BU), Boston College (BC), and Tufts University can be overwhelming.

Feeling "caught between worlds" can lead to emotional stress, feelings of isolation, and mental health issues. The pressure to succeed in an unfamiliar environment can feel insurmountable. It’s important to know that you are not alone. Therapy and community support can offer valuable assistance as you navigate these complexities.

The Unique Mental Health Challenges First-Gen Students Face

Family & Cultural Expectations vs. Campus Culture

For many first-generation students, there is a delicate balancing act. Family expectations rooted in collectivist cultures often emphasize community and family obligations. In contrast, universities promote independence and self-reliance. This clash can lead to emotional turmoil, where students feel torn between meeting their family’s expectations and seizing the opportunities their education offers.

For instance, 92% of first-generation college students report feeling guilt when pursuing their educational goals, believing they are letting their families down. Acknowledging these feelings is vital. Understand that your experience is valid, and seeking support can help navigate these conflicting expectations.

Financial Pressure & Academic Perfectionism

Financial concerns are another significant source of stress. Many first-gen students experience anxiety about covering tuition, housing, and supporting their families. Some studies show that 43% of first-generation students worry about financing their education. This financial burden often leads students to strive for perfection in their academic performance.

Perfectionism can lead to severe anxiety and burnout, making it difficult to balance coursework, internships, and personal responsibilities. Recognizing financial stress as a legitimate concern is essential to finding strategies for effective management.

Intersectionality Matters

The intersection of race, gender, sexuality, neurodivergence, and immigration status creates additional layers of complexity for first-gen students. Many BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students encounter discrimination, microaggressions, or systemic barriers that distract from their academic focus and can amplify feelings of alienation.

Embracing your identity and understanding these systemic issues can contribute to resilience. For example, 62% of underrepresented minority students report feeling excluded from campus activities. Connecting with others who share your experiences can help combat feelings of isolation and strengthen your sense of community.

Building Belonging & Emotional Support

Finding Peer & Cultural Community

One effective way to combat isolation is by finding a community with shared experiences. Seek out affinity groups, cultural organizations, and student-led initiatives that resonate with your identity. Engaging with peers who understand your background can foster a sense of belonging and validation.

University campuses typically have resources to facilitate connections. Don’t hesitate to reach out to cultural centers or student associations that promote diversity and inclusion. Building friendships with those who share similar values can be incredibly enriching.

Two young female BC college students, one wearing a hijab, smiling and talking while walking outdoors, holding notebooks. Represents friendship, student life, and cultural diversity.

Creating Micro-Communities of Care

Nurturing friendships and building chosen families can significantly affect your emotional well-being. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you creates a safe space for open dialogue.

Setting boundaries is equally important. Prioritizing your mental health may mean stepping back from social obligations or academic pressures. Lean on close friends and allies who can provide comfort and reassurance during overwhelming times.

Tufts University students working together on a laptop at an outdoor campus table, symbolizing collaborative learning, inclusion, and academic support.

How Therapy Supports First-Gen College Students

The pressures faced by first-gen students often require additional support, making therapy a valuable resource. Campus counseling centers typically offer a range of mental health services, including individual therapy, workshops, and support groups.

However, finding culturally responsive therapists can sometimes be challenging. If campus counseling doesn't meet your needs, consider seeking a therapist outside the university, specifically one who understands your identity. In Boston, various options exist for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and immigrant populations.

Virtual therapy is a viable alternative. Many students find it increasingly accessible compared to in-person sessions, especially when juggling busy schedules or logistical barriers.

Seeking Community Care

Engaging with both formal and informal support systems is critical for fostering resilience and coping skills. Look for peer mentorship programs, study groups, and cultural events to build relationships and discover uplifting spaces.

Participating in community service or activism around cultural or social causes that matter to you can deepen your academic experience while forming meaningful connections with others who share your passions.