Randolph-Macon students smiling at a nighttime outdoor event, each wearing vibrant outfits and colorful balloon hats.

First-Generation Yellow Jackets

First-Generation students are trailblazers

First-Gen Yellow Jackets are the first in their immediate family to attend and graduate from a four-year college or university. These students come to college with many special qualities, including motivation, resilience, a sense of responsibility, and unique commitment. Being First Generation is something to be proud of as you have an incredible opportunity to write your own story, create your own community, and thrive here at RMC.

Take Flight or Learn How to Fly Whether you feel overprepared or a little uncertain, here is everything you need to fly here at RMC!

You are not alone! Connect with students on-campus or around the globe!

On Campus Organizations 

  • Yellow Jackets F1RST
    • Our organization is here to support, empower, and connect first-generation students at Randolph-Macon College. Through events, community-building, leadership opportunities, and advocacy, we aim to create a welcoming space where every first-generation student feels valued, supported, and heard. Whether you’re looking to join, get involved, or support the first-generation community, there is a place for you here. Together, we promote Empowerment, Leadership, Respect, and Inclusion.
  • Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri Alpha) 
    • Tri-Alpha is a national honor society that celebrates the achievements of first-generation college students. It is a community where first-generation students, faculty, staff, and alumni can connect, celebrate success, and support one another.
    • Interested in joining? (Inductions occur in the Spring)
      • Undergraduate students: 30+ completed credit hours and a 3.2+ GPA
      • Graduate students: 9+ completed graduate courses and a 3.5+ GPA
      • If you meet the requirements, we’d love to have you be part of Tri-Alpha and our first-generation community!
First Gen students doing an activity at a table

ON-Campus Resources

Many of our faculty and staff are First-Gen students, who are better at helping than someone with lived experience. Here at RMC, we are invested in ensuring the success of all our students, especially those who are First-Gen. Browse through the many resources below available at your disposal.

External Organizations

  • I’m First!
    • I’m First! is an online community for first-generation college students, offering stories, advice, and resources to help students feel supported and confident throughout their college journey. Explore the site to connect with other first-gen students and find resources to help you succeed.
  • The Struggle to Be First
    • “The Struggle to Be First” explores the challenges first-generation college students may face while navigating college. The article highlights the importance of support, community, and resources in helping first-gen students overcome obstacles and succeed. 
  • Blog | I’m First!
    • The I’m First! Blog shares stories, advice, and experiences from first-generation college students and graduates. It’s a great place to find encouragement, relatable experiences, and helpful tips as you navigate college and beyond. 
  • The Unique Challenges for the First-Generation College Student
    • This article highlights the unique challenges first-generation college students may experience, including navigating college without family experience to guide them. It emphasizes the importance of support, resources, and community in helping first-gen students feel confident and succeed in college.