First Generation/Low Income

Information and resources for those who identify as First Generation / Low Income

The following resources are curated specifically to assist students who identify as first-generation or low income college students, and all students who support the advancement of students who identify as first-generation or low income, explore their interests, find opportunities that best suit their needs and desires, and attain the goals they set for themselves.

We hope to continue to add resources that might be helpful and if you find something valuable, please share it with us.

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Duke Career Center Professional Development Fund

Through the Professional Development Fund, the Duke Career Center provides funding to support or supplement the career development of students with demonstrated financial need.  Students are eligible to apply for no more than one professional development request per academic year.

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DukeLIFE x Career Center: Your Gateway to Career Success with Spring Forward

If you are a first-year student from a first-generation and lower-income background, we are inviting you to apply to the Spring Forward Career Immersion Program. Are you interested? Keep reading to learn more!

If you have questions or would …

By Jared Smith (He/Him)
Jared Smith (He/Him) Associate Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
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Informational Interviewing Made Easy

The power of informational interviewing should not be understated. It is even more influential for First-Generation students as they build their personal and professional networks during university and beyond.

Commonly known as Networking, Informational Interviewing is a strategic conversation with a …

By Jared Smith (He/Him)
Jared Smith (He/Him) Associate Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
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Have you heard about ‘Dear Pathfinder’?

Are you on the road to professional achievement but encountering challenges along the way? ‘Dear Pathfinder’ is here to provide the answers you seek. Our advice column is ready to address your questions, whether they pertain to job searches, career …

By Jared Smith (He/Him)
Jared Smith (He/Him) Associate Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
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Vetting Organizations for Fit

What steps can be taken during the scouting and recruitment process to identify the best professional environments for you?

By Jared Smith and Hal Matthews

Finding the right organizational or positional fit isn’t only about identifying an ideal role at …

By Jared Smith (He/Him)
Jared Smith (He/Him) Associate Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
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DELAYED JOB START: WHEN TO WAIT AND WHEN TO MOVE ON

Written by: Sarah Johnston, Founder and CEO at Briefcase Coach.

If you aren’t a Master’s or professional student this article still offers great topics for you to consider. All students can connect with a career advisor to discuss their next …

By Jared Smith (He/Him)
Jared Smith (He/Him) Associate Director, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
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Sidebar

Scholarships & Grants

***Please note that the Professional Development Fund award cycle will pause over winter break.
The November application cycle will end …

Career Readiness Resources

The Spring Forward initiative is a new exciting collaboration between Duke LIFE and the Duke Career Center, specifically tailored to …

‘Dear Pathfinder’ Ask Column

Unlock Professional Success with ‘Dear Pathfinder’

Are you a current student or young professional on the road to professional achievement …

Coming to Duke can be overwhelming at first, particularly with the influx of Duke specific terms and concepts for you …

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