Drake Academic Excellence and Student Success is leading a new initiative to support first-generation students.

Approximately 10–14 percent of first year students are the first in their family to earn a four-year degree. After recognizing a need to support this student group, Drake Academic Excellence and Student Success decided to develop programs and services designed to create a welcoming and supportive environment for first-generation students.

“Being the first in your family to attend college, can have unique challenges,” said Marina Verlengia, director of new student and parent programs. “Our hope is to provide first-gen students with the tools, resources, opportunities, and networks necessary to be successful at Drake and beyond.”

Verlengia said the initiative is in the early stages of development. Look for more information in the coming weeks on future programs and services. If you’d like to show support for this initiative, participate in a focus group, or share your experience as a first-generation student, please contact Verlengia at marina.verlengia@drake.edu.