For students who are the first in their families to attend college, charting a career path can feel both exciting and unfamiliar. Notre Dame’s First Gen Careers program exists to make that journey clearer and more supported, helping students discover their strengths, build community, and take confident steps toward their futures.
The Meruelo Family Center for Career Development has established a guiding initiative, First Gen Careers (FGC), to support first-generation students in their process of career development during their time at the University.
Through academic and career-related opportunities, first-generation students benefit from career coaching, hands-on experiences in their prospective fields, and other opportunities that help them identify their unique strengths and interests.
Nia Robinson, assistant director, career advisor for the College of Science, and co-leader of FGC, reflects on the importance of building community within this initiative: “The [FGC] creates a space where first-generation students can see themselves reflected and supported. It’s not just about resources, it’s about relationships, encouragement, and celebrating the unique paths that bring each of us to Notre Dame.”
The FGC offers special programming and events, such as the First Gen Networking Night, special workshops, “backstage passes” to campus career fairs, and the support of a student-led advisory board. These are opportunities for students to learn from mentors and speakers about specific fields and skills, but also career discernment. In doing so, they provide more than just stepping stones. They are supporting students as they build their careers within a network of support.