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First Generation Student Support

Welcome to the W&M community!

As you prepare for your journey at William & Mary, the Office of First Generation Student Engagement is here to provide support and resources throughout the summer. Here's how we can assist you!

General Advising and Support

If you have questions about whether you qualify for our services or need guidance on navigating the college experience as a first-generation student or from a background with limited family college support, feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist you in any way we can.

First Generation Student Engagement Director

Joselia Souza, M.Ed., serves as the Director of the Office of First Generation Student Engagement. She is available to provide general advising support and is open to scheduling meetings to address your individual needs. Contact [[jasouza, Joselia]].

Who We Support

We offer specialized support to the following groups:

Who We Support
First-Generation Students

Students whose parents did not complete a bachelor's degree.

Students with Limited Family College Support

This includes students who may have strained relationships with a parent who completed a bachelor's degree or whose parents obtained their degree in a different country, resulting in limited college knowledge.

DACA/TPS/Undocumented Students

We provide tailored support and resources for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), TPS (Temporary Protected Status), and undocumented students, ensuring they have access to the necessary assistance for academic success.

Low-Socioeconomic Status Background/Pell Grant Eligible Students

Students from low socioeconomic backgrounds or those eligible for Pell Grants can benefit from our services, aimed at bridging the gap in familial college knowledge and providing essential support.

WMSURE Scholars

William & Mary Scholars Undergraduate Research Experience (WMSURE) Scholars receive additional support and resources through our office to navigate their academic journey effectively.

Feel free to connect with us if you have any questions or need assistance throughout the summer. We're here to support you as you prepare for your transition to William & Mary!