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.
From the article, Career Development Needs of First-Generation Students by Heather Maietta, for the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), we understand that a selection of the common barriers students face includes:
- can possess unrealistic career goals, or have career goals without understanding the aspirations associated with their decision
- may be uncomfortable in a college environment
- may have trouble navigating campus services
- likely face acute financial pressures
- could be more comfortable with professors and staff than peers, viewing faculty and staff as experts whose acceptance they crave, while being less focused on the social aspects of college
- may be under the impression they should not ask questions
- could have low self-efficacy
- often experience feelings of not belonging/impostor syndrome
We hope to continue to add resources that might be helpful and if you find something valuable, please share it with us.
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.
