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Notes for First-Year Students Notes for Sophomores Notes for Juniors Notes for Seniors Glossary of UMD slang + jargon Thrive Center for Essential Needs
Tri-Alpha Honor Society First-Gen Student Association
Contact
Smiling University of Maryland graduates in their regalia

#FearlessFirst

First-Gen Terps

We are scholars, leaders, and change-makers.

Join us



Smiling University of Maryland graduates in their regalia

Events

Let's celebrate!

National First-Generation College Celebration Day is observed annually on November 8, but we're celebrating at UMD from Nov. 2-13.


Featured Events

FGSA group at table

First Gen Tabling + Card Making

Stop by the First Generation Student Association (FGSA) table to learn more about ways to get involved and write an appreciation card to someone who has made a positive impact on you (+ a chance to win a prize!)
November 6, 2026, 11:00 AM
November 6, 2026, 2:00 PM
Stamp Student Union
Learn more

fall poster thumbnail

Clark First Gen Fall Celebration

Are you a First Generation Student in The Clark School of Engineering? Join us to learn about resources on campus, play fall-themed games, and be recognized for all of the hard work you’ve done on your pursuit of becoming an Engineer.
November 6, 2026, 2:00 PM
November 6, 2026, 4:00 PM
A.V. Williams Building 2460
Learn more

University of Maryland iconic M

Study Abroad Community Coffee Hour

Enjoy some snacks and hot beverages (not just coffee!), play games and participate in a bingo raffle for a free prize, and attend a panel discussion/audience Q&A with first gen study abroad alumni.
November 11, 2026, 4:00 PM
November 11, 2026, 6:00 PM
HJ Patterson Hall, Language Science Center
RSVP

inspiration board

AAP's Fearless First Celebration Station

Stop by to meet up with First-Gen Terps, pick up FEARLESS FIRST buttons and stickers, check out First-Gen campus resources, and enjoy sweet treats!
November 13, 2026, 11:00 AM
November 13, 2026, 1:00 PM
Stamp Student Union
Learn more





First-Gen Champions

A first-generation college student is someone whose parents or guardians have not completed a bachelor's degree. As you fearlessly create a college legacy, we are here to celebrate your accomplishments and help you find your way.


Learn more
close up of post-it notes on the fearless first board.



students posing outside

Are you a First-Gen Terp?

Not sure if you qualify as first-gen? Want to find out more about other First-Gen Terps?
Take our quiz


Ruth Ginsberg

Trailblazers

Do you recognize these first-generation students?
Learn more



Hear our stories. Share yours.



See all stories


First-Gen Terps is a joint initiative.


We are supported by the Office of Undergraduate Studies, the Division of Student Affairs, and many units and programs. UMD is a member of the First Gen Forward Network (formerly NASPA’s Center for First-generation Student Success). We are committed to supporting and advancing success for our first-generation students through data-driven and infrastructure-building tools and leadership. We'd love to work with you. Please contact us.

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