This summer we are recruiting our fourth cohort of FirstGen Ahead college juniors. While any first-generation college junior can apply online, it typically takes a conversation with a caring and connected adult to point students our way. We’re grateful for our partnerships with The Steppingstone Foundation and the Student Support Services programs at both Brandeis University and Salem State University in identifying first-generation college juniors who can benefit from our services.

We are slightly revising our model with this fourth cohort of students. In the past, students would immediately begin working with a coach over a 17-month period. Simultaneously, during their junior year, they would be working with a peer group on select projects. What students will experience this coming fall semester is similar peer group activities, such as networking and informational interviews. Students will also receive expert guidance from a Master Coach on honing their marketing materials. However, it will not be until the spring semester that each student will be matched with one of our amazing volunteer coaches. This way, they will begin working with a coach with some key materials in place, with more clarity on their interests, and after having demonstrated their commitment to the process. Working one-on-one with a volunteer coach will then be tailored to a student’s individual needs. Also, in the spring semester, the students will continue meeting as a peer group, which will include learning from hiring managers and young professionals about applying for positions as well as receiving advice on transitioning from college to career. During their senior year, students will continue working with their coaches.

This summer we congratulated our seniors on their transition to post-degree employment. We’re excited to report that several of them had multiple job offers in a career of their choosing. While they have officially graduated from our program, we look forward to remaining in contact and being of support when and if needed in the future. In fact, the majority of our graduates spontaneously make that request of their coaches!

Wishing you a joyful, safe, and productive remainder of the summer.

Susan Gershenfeld, PhD