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Going to college as a first-generation student is a proud and exciting moment — but also brand new. At 51����, we offer a free First-Generation Bridge Program to help you build confidence, make connections, and get comfortable on campus before your first semester even begins.

Through mentorship, academic preparation, and community-building activities, participants ease into college life with support and tailored prep experiences alongside other first-generation students.

Why Participate in 51����’s First-Gen Program?

The First-Generation Bridge Program is designed to help students ease concerns about starting college and successfully navigate this new phase of life. Activities are geared specifically to first-generation college students, helping you:

• Make connections and new friends before classes begin.
• Build confidence before entering college.
• Get comfortable with and acclimated to campus.
• Start college feeling supported and connected.
• Participate in a first-gen .

What’s Included?

This free program includes:

• Early move-in to campus one week before other students.
• Specialized support from faculty and staff mentors.
• Workshops on college success.
• Goal-setting activities for your first year.
• Opportunities to connect with other first-generation students.
• A Trailblazer Orientation Trip experience at no extra cost.

First-Gen Trailblazer Trips

These five-day experiences are held in August after your early move-in day. Students can choose from a variety of trips, which act as an extended Orientation and provide an unforgettable summer adventure.

Your Trailblazer experience starts with a visit to the Student Academic Success Center (SASC) on campus and an interactive goal-setting session with other first-gen students followed by one of the following trips of your choice:

• : After moving in, stay on the 51���� campus and take day trips to quintessential coastal communities, including Boothbay Harbor and Freeport, Maine.
• : Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting at Harris Station Dam, with 12 miles of scenic river views and high-flow class 3 and 4 rapids.
• : Camp in tents next to the ocean at the L.L.Bean Paddling Center in Freeport while enjoying activities like beginner-friendly kayaking, archery, and a ropes course.

To participate in the free First-Generation Bridge Program, you must:

1. Attend a June New Student Orientation session (required for program participation).
2. Register for the program by signing up for one of our free through Eventbrite (no extra application required).
3. Plan to move into your residence hall on Sunday, August 23.

Important Notes

• Registration is required to participate in the First-Generation Bridge Program.
• You should not register for a separate Trailblazer Trip in June, as the August trip is included in the program. (If you are unable to participate in the included trip, you may register for a June trip at the regular fee of $125.)
• If you are not participating in the Bridge Program, you will move in with the rest of the first-year class on Sunday, August 30.

Have questions about 51����’s First-Generation Bridge Program? Please contact:

Dr. Shane Long
Assistant Dean of Students
slong11@une.edu