First-Generation Students
Being the first in your family to attend college is something to celebrate! At College of Western Idaho, you are part of a community ready to support your goals, connect you with resources, and celebrate your success.
What It Means to Be First-Generation
You are considered a first-generation college student if neither of your parents has earned a bachelor's degree. Whether you are just beginning your college journey or working toward graduation, your achievements matter. Being first-generation means creating new opportunities for yourself and those who follow.
Find Your Support
You have a community of people ready to help you succeed. Whether you need help with classes, financial aid, planning your next semester or exploring career opportunities, CWI offers services to support you throughout your college experience. Discover resources to help you:
- Plan your path with academic advising and guidance.
- Succeed in your classes with tutoring, academic coaching, and learning resources.
- Navigate college costs with financial aid and scholarships.
- Connect with others through student clubs, activities, and campus events.
- Prepare for your future with career exploration, internships, and employment resources.
Celebrating First-Gen
Each November, CWI celebrates first-generation students and the people who support their success during First-Generation Celebration Week.
First-Generation Celebration Day
Join current students, graduates, faculty, and staff as they share their experiences, challenges, and achievements as first-generation college students. Enjoy food, connect with others, and discover resources to support your own journey.
Thursday, Nov. 12
11:30 – 1:00 p.m.
Nampa Campus CapEd Student Success Center (NCSC), Room 119
Explore the College's Nampa Campus, meet first-gen champions, and discover resources to help you succeed! Join this self-paced, interactive scavenger hunt using your smartphone. Visit participating locations, meet first-gen faculty and staff, and earn points toward CWI swag and a chance to win a scholarship*.
- Join the hunt. Open PlayTours on your smartphone and enter game code MXGH. Register using your name and CWI email address. No app download is required.
- Find first-gen stops. Follow the directions in PlayTours to visit participating locations across Nampa Campus and earn points.
- Explore at your own pace. Visit as many stops as you want through Nov. 13 at 4 p.m. You do not need to complete every stop to earn rewards.
- Check your CWI email. Watch for reward information during the week of Nov. 16 – 20.
*Scholarship drawing eligibility is limited to students who reach the highest reward tier. Faculty and staff may participate in the scavenger hunt but are not eligible for the scholarship drawing.
CWI faculty and staff are encouraged to wear their "I AM First-Gen" shirts during First-Generation Celebration Week, Nov. 9 – 13. Whether you are a first-generation college graduate or someone who supports first-generation student success, join the celebration!
Questions?
