FirstGen Program
Welcome to Biola, FirstGen students! A first-generation college student is in the first generation of their family to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in the United States. FirstGen students come in many variations. Perhaps one or both of your parents attended college but haven’t graduated with their bachelor’s degree. Maybe your parents graduated from college in another country, or you weren’t raised by your biological parents who attended college. Maybe your parents are going to college at the same time as you. Whatever your story is, we are glad you are at Biola!
FirstGen Scholars Program
The FirstGen Scholars Program is designed for incoming freshmen and transfer FirstGen students with desires to connect to a community, develop their life story and thrive in their identity.
Summer Bridge
All incoming FirstGen students are welcomed to join our annual Summer Bridge event — where students can transition into Biola and position themselves for a thriving college experience.
FirstGen Mentorship
As a FirstGen student, you have a community of students, faculty and staff cheering you on towards success and growth. Our FirstGen mentors are here to walk with you throughout your college journey.
FirstGen Success Coaching
Schedule an appointment with a SEID staff member for academic and spiritual support.
FirstGen Faculty and Staff Directory
Connect with members of the Biola community that share your first-generation identity.
FirstGen Newsletter
Sign up for our SEID newsletter to learn more about scholarships, internship and job opportunities, and more.
News & Features
Here are some tips
There are no dumb questions, always ask questions. I had the opportunity to grow, and learn and become more of what God has prepared for me. I was able to make connections and friends, which it was key in adapting to a new community as a transfer student.
My biggest advice would be to take advantage of what FirstGen has to offer you. The people who make up FirstGen genuinely have your best interest in heart and are more than happy to help you in any way possible. Allow yourself to be open and actively participate in the community, the more involved you are, the more experiences you’ll be able to have!
Loneliness is a feeling that you're bound to experience at times but it should never be something that you dwell on. The people at Biola are just so warm, kind, and willing to help you that it's kinda impossible to charge into the college journey alone. I still encourage any FirstGen students to reach out and be outgoing. It's tough, especially if you're shy or introverted, but getting out of your comfort zone will make all the difference and actually allow you to expand what you would call your "comfort zone" in the long run.
I would say to dive in — this community is so beautiful. Get to know your cohort and let them in. My cohort grew in so many ways because we relied on one another and two years later, we are all still so close. FirstGen is not just a community at Biola, it's a family.
Don’t be afraid of reaching out to your teacher and TA’s — they are always there to help you. Remember that you are not alone in college. The goal is to get a degree, but also take advantage during this time to join extracurricular activities on campus. If you’re having a rough time, seek help from the student leaders around you. Just like God had something prepared for the woman at the well, he will always bring you home.
Soak everything in while you’re at Biola. College may seem scary, but Biola is so much more than a college. It is an education and spiritual melting pot. I am so excited for anyone who comes to Biola because I know their faith will really change, and your relationship with God will definitely become stronger.