First-Generation College Students
A first-generation college student refers to an individual whose parents did not earn a four-year college degree. The Office of Student Transitions is excited to offer a network of University partners that are dedicated to supporting first-generation students in their success inside and outside of the classroom. You can also find more resources for first-generation college students on the Center for Inclusion and Diversity's website.
College Jargon Handbook
Being the first person in your family to attend college is both exciting and challenging. Here at SJU we offer our first gen students a supportive campus-wide network to assist each step of the way as needed. We invite you to reference the handbook linked below for help defining college terms:
Tri-Alpha Honor Society
The National Honor Society, AAA or Tri-Alpha is a First Generation Honors Society (Tri-Alpha). This organization aims to enrich the student's college experience at SJU by recognizing achievements, providing support and beneficial resources while giving first gens a sense of community. Students who participate have the opportunity to network with first-generation scholars in a wide range of disciplines and can connect with employers, graduate schools and a wide range of professionals. Requirements for this honor society include a 3.2 or higher GPA, a minimum of 30 earned credits and first-generation college student status.
Tri-Alpha Honor Society Information
FirstGen Forward
Saint Joseph’s University is proud to have been named a FirstGen Forward university. The University is committed to expanding its understanding of first-generation student success through participation in monthly workshops, networking and professional development opportunities, sharing knowledge and resources, and contributing to a peer community. The FirstGen Forward network comprises nearly 500 institutions across the country, harnessing the potential of first-generation students and improving success outcomes.