The First-Gen Experience

What is First-Generation?

As a first-generation student at Middlebury College you have the opportunity to join the First-Gen Experience, aimed at supporting your academic and social success. 

Annual events and programs include First@Midd pre-orientation program, First-Gen Excursions, First-Generation Week which includes National First-Gen Day, a First@Midd Cohort Reunion each semester, and the First-Gen Graduation Celebration.

First-Gen Excursions

Throughout the year special trips or “excursions” are planned by the First-Generation Student Fellow where first-generation students have the chance to get off campus and do something fun as a community. Past excursions included apple picking with cider donuts, cider and other activities at a local orchard and hangouts at lake Dunmore. We are hoping to continue expanding the reach of these trips so that there are more opportunities to connect and take a break from life at Midd.

Have an idea for an excursion? Email the AFC at afc@middlebury.edu and address your email to the first generation fellow.

First-Gen Week

First-gen week is a call to celebrate students, faculty and staff who are the first in their family to pursue a four-year undergraduate degree in the United States. This week usually falls around November 8th (First-gen day.) The AFC holds events during this week to bring students, faculty and staff together. 

Next Steps Week

Each year during fall semester, the AFC hosts a next steps week for students which focuses on resources and knowledge to take the “next step” on your Midd journey. Sessions include preparing for the next round of financial aid processes, internship and career preparation, summer job search or preparing for professional job search as a senior, sorting out potential study abroad opportunities, starting to think early about graduate school applications, and any other topic deemed beneficial for first-generation students to know. It is a full week of connections and is open to students in all class years.

F@M Reunions

Each semester (fall and spring) we have a First@Midd reunion. All cohorts of First@Midd students on campus are invited for a night of activities and food. The intent of the reunions is to reinforce the community that exists among first-generation students on campus and bring First@Midd mentors and their family groups together again to continue the support system and camaraderie that was built during pre-orientation..

First-Gen Guide

The First-Gen Guide is meant to help you thrive at Middlebury, and it is highly recommended that you read through it and refer back to it when in need throughout your time here. The guide contains curated information from a “wish I knew when I started” list devised by former and current Midd students. The guide is updated yearly to keep the most accurate information.