A First-Gen Student's Guide to University Terminology
Navigating the university environment can be challenging, especially for first-generation students who might not be familiar with the terminology commonly used in higher education. This glossary aims to demystify some of the most common terms your first-generation students will encounter as they begin their college journey. First-gen professionals, please use this guide as a template for building your own guide to your university’s terminology and acronyms for your first-generation students:
Academic Advisor
An academic advisor is a faculty or staff member who helps students select courses, plan their academic paths, and navigate university policies. They are a key resource for ensuring you stay on track to meet your graduation requirements.
Academic Year
The academic year is typically divided into two semesters (fall and spring), although some universities may also have summer and winter sessions. It generally begins in late August or early September and ends in May or June.
Add/Drop
The add/drop period is the designated time at the beginning of the semester when students can add or drop courses without penalty. After this period, withdrawing from a course may result in a grade of “W” on your transcript.
Attendance Policy
An attendance policy is a set of rules established by the university or individual professors regarding students’ attendance in class. Adhering to these policies is important to ensure academic success.
Audit
Auditing a course allows a student to attend classes without receiving credit or a grade. This can be a good way to explore subjects of interest without the pressure of exams and assignments.
Bachelor’s Degree
A bachelor’s degree is an undergraduate academic degree awarded by colleges and universities upon completion of a course of study, lasting typically for four years.
Blue Book
A blue book is a small notebook used for writing essays and short answers during exams. It is often required for in-class tests.
Bursar
The bursar’s office is responsible for handling the university’s financial matters, including billing and collecting tuition, fees, and other charges. If you have questions about your bill or need to set up a payment plan, this is where you go.
Class Ticket
A class ticket is the scheduling result of the course request entered by students each semester. The class ticket shows which section of each course the student has been enrolled in for a given semester. The sections are identified by a course request number (CRN). Once the add/drop period opens, students may make changes to their original class ticket.
Clery Act
This law requires any public or private college or university which receives federal financial aid to keep and disclose crime statistics on and near campus. Amendments to the Clery Act passed in 2008 require institutions to include a campus emergency response plan in their reporting. Institutions are required to publish their report each fall and it must contain information for the prior three years.
Co-Curricular or Extracurricular Activities
Activities, programs, and learning experiences that complement the formal academic curriculum. Research shows that students who are involved outside the classroom are more invested, more successful academically, and more satisfied with their college experience.
Core Curriculum
The core curriculum refers to a set of required courses that all students must complete, regardless of their major. These courses are designed to provide a broad foundation of knowledge and skills.
Credit Hour
A credit hour is a unit of measurement that represents one hour of class time per week over a semester. Most courses are worth three credit hours, meaning they meet for three hours each week.
Curricular Activities
Curricular activities are activities directly related to the academic curriculum, such as labs, projects, and class discussions.
College
A college can refer to an individual institution offering undergraduate degrees or to a division within a university, such as the College of Arts and Sciences.
Course Catalog
A course catalog is a comprehensive resource listing all the courses offered by a university, along with their descriptions, prerequisites, and academic policies. It’s an essential tool for planning your academic journey.
Course Number
A course number is the number your college or university uses to classify a course. This number is needed in order to register for a class.
Course Request
A course request is the process of selecting courses for the upcoming semester, typically done through the university’s registration system. Course request for summer and fall classes occurs in the spring semester and during the fall semester for spring classes. Students are often asked, encouraged, or required to meet with their academic advisor before registering for courses to ensure that they understand their course requirements.
Credit Hour
A credit hour is equivalent to one hour of class time per week. Courses are usually measured in credit hours, with most being three or four credit hours. Students may refer to how many credit hours or credits they are carrying for a particular semester. A general rule of thumb is that students should be averaging about two hours of work per week outside of class for each credit hour or hour of time spent in class. The number of credit hours a student enrolls in determines whether they are a full-time student or a part-time student.
Curriculum
The curriculum is the set of courses and their content offered at a university or within a specific program or major. It outlines the required and elective courses needed to complete a degree.
Department
A department is a division within a college or university that focuses on a specific academic discipline, such as the Department of Biology or the Department of History.
Elective
An elective is a course that students can choose to take for credit toward their degree, but it is not required by their major. Electives allow students to explore interests outside their primary field of study.
FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)
The FAFSA is a form that students in the United States must complete to be considered for financial aid, including federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Submitting the FAFSA is a critical step in securing financial support for your education and is required to be completed every year that you are enrolled in college.
Major
A major is a student’s primary area of study, typically requiring a set number of specific courses within a department. Declaring a major allows students to specialize in a particular academic discipline.
Minor
A minor is a secondary field of study requiring fewer courses than a major. It allows students to gain expertise in an additional area of interest. A minor is optional.
Office Hours
Office hours are designated times when professors are available to meet with students outside of class. This time can be used for discussing course material, seeking advice, or getting help with assignments. Professors or teaching assistants announce when and where office hours will be every week. This information is also listed on each course syllabus.
Prerequisite
A prerequisite is a course or requirement that must be completed before enrolling in a more advanced course. Understanding prerequisites is crucial for planning your academic schedule.
Reading Day
A reading day is a designated day without classes before final exams begin. It provides students with time to study and prepare for their exams.
Registrar
The registrar’s office manages student records, including course registration, transcripts, and graduation requirements. This office is essential for handling administrative aspects of your academic career.
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)
Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is defined by the federal government as successful completion of coursework to maintain eligibility for financial aid. The federal government requires that universities establish, publish, and apply standards to monitor progress toward completion. These standards apply both to grade point average (GPA) and to progress toward degree completion. Students must maintain the standard minimum GPA established by their university and must complete the required number of credits for graduation within a maximum number of attempts.
School
A school can refer to an individual institution of higher education or to a division within a university, such as the School of Business or the School of Engineering.
Syllabus
A syllabus is a document provided by professors at the beginning of a course, outlining the course structure, schedule, assignments, grading policies, and other important information. It serves as a roadmap for the semester. The syllabus contains a wealth of information about the course and may include requirements, expectations, textbook information, contact information for the instructor, office hours, objectives, assignments, and a daily schedule of topics. Students are encouraged to read the syllabus carefully and refer to it often throughout the course.
Teaching Assistant (TA)
A teaching assistant is a graduate student who assists a professor with instructional responsibilities, such as leading discussion sections, grading assignments, and holding office hours.
University
A university is an institution of higher education offering undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of study. It typically comprises multiple colleges and schools.
Withdrawal
Withdrawal refers to the process of officially leaving a course or the university before completing it. Withdrawals after the add/drop period usually result in a “W” on the transcript.
Work-Study
Federal Work-Study (FWS) is a financial aid program that provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay for educational expenses. The federal work study portion of the financial aid package is the portion that a student can earn through a part-time job on campus.
How Faculty and Staff Can Support First-Generation Students During Final Exams
For first-generation college students, final exams can be especially challenging as they often balance academic pressures with unique responsibilities and stressors. As we enter into finals week, we want to highlight the ways that faculty and staff play a crucial role in creating an environment that supports their success and well-being during this time. Here are ten (10) practical ways to help first-generation students manage stress and stay focused during finals:
1. Communicate Expectations Clearly
Provide clear instructions for final assignments, exam formats, and deadlines. Offer examples or rubrics when possible to reduce uncertainty and anxiety.
2. Acknowledge Their Unique Challenges
Recognize that first-generation students often face additional stressors, such as working long hours, family responsibilities, or navigating college independently. A simple acknowledgment of their effort can make them feel seen and valued.
3. Promote Campus Resources
Ensure students are aware of campus resources such as counseling centers, tutoring services, and study workshops. Share these resources early and often, and consider inviting representatives to speak briefly during class.
4. Encourage Time Management Skills
Help students manage their time effectively by providing study tips, sample schedules, or tools like digital planners. Consider hosting a workshop or creating a handout that outlines strategies for balancing multiple commitments during finals.
5. Offer Flexible Office Hours
Extended or flexible office hours during finals week can make it easier for students to ask questions and seek guidance. If possible, provide virtual options for those who may have off-campus obligations.
6. Create a Supportive Environment
Foster a classroom culture that prioritizes well-being. Encourage students to take breaks, practice self-care, and engage in positive self-talk. Share stress-management tips during class or through email.
7. Be Approachable and Empathetic
Be mindful of the stress students may feel when approaching faculty. Adopt a compassionate tone in your communication and be open to discussions about accommodations or additional support when necessary.
8. Incorporate Stress-Relief Activities
If possible, integrate brief mindfulness or stress-relief activities into the classroom. For example, start or end class with a quiet moment for reflection.
9. Encourage Peer Support
Facilitate opportunities for peer collaboration, such as study groups or discussion boards. Peer support can help first-generation students feel more connected and less isolated during finals.
10. Celebrate Their Efforts
Finals can be daunting, but recognizing students’ hard work and resilience can be uplifting. Send a message of encouragement, celebrate small wins, or organize a low-stakes class activity to boost morale.
Supporting first-generation students during final exams goes beyond academics. By fostering a culture of empathy, accessibility, and encouragement, faculty and staff can help first-generation students navigate the challenges of finals and build the confidence to thrive in their academic journey. Every gesture, no matter how small, can have a lasting impact.
Tips for First-Generation Students: Understanding Your Financial Aid Package and Key Deadlines
For first-generation students, navigating the financial aid process can feel overwhelming. Understanding the ins and outs of your financial aid package, key deadlines, and financial literacy concepts is crucial for making informed decisions about your education. In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, here are essential tips to help first-generation students successfully manage their financial aid.
1. Understanding Your Financial Aid Package
As the college acceptances roll in, understanding your financial aid package is key. Your financial aid package consists of different types of funding that help cover tuition, fees, and living expenses. Here’s what you need to know:
Grants: These are need-based funds that you do not have to repay. Common grants include the Pell Grant and state-specific grants.
Scholarships: Merit-based or need-based awards that do not require repayment. Search for scholarships through your school, community organizations, and national databases. To request a copy of our scholarship list, follow @drcharmainetroy on Instagram and request the list via direct mail.
Work-Study: A federal program that provides part-time employment opportunities for eligible students to help cover educational expenses. Work-study can be offered as part of your financial aid package if you qualify for it.
Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid with interest. Federal student loans typically offer lower interest rates and flexible repayment plans compared to private loans.
2. Reviewing and Comparing Financial Aid Offers
Check the cost of attendance (COA) and compare it to your expected financial aid to determine how much you need to cover out-of-pocket.
Understand the terms of each aid type, especially if loans are included. Research interest rates, repayment plans, and whether the loan is subsidized or unsubsidized.
Accept grants and scholarships first, work-study second, and loans last to minimize debt.
3. Key Financial Aid Deadlines to Remember
Missing deadlines can result in lost funding, so stay organized! Here are some key dates to track:
FAFSA Submission: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens in December for the following academic year. Some aid is first-come, first-served, so apply as early as possible. Also, apply for early admission to your colleges of choices so that you can be considered early for scholarship and grant opportunities.
State and Institutional Aid Deadlines: Many states and colleges have priority deadlines, which can vary. Check your school's financial aid website to confirm.
Scholarship Deadlines: These can be year-round, but many have spring and fall deadlines. Keep a calendar to track upcoming opportunities. Apply, apply, apply!! Don’t count yourself out of these opportunities!
Loan Application Deadlines: If you need additional loans, verify deadlines for both federal and private loan applications.
4. Building Financial Literacy Skills
Beyond securing aid, it’s important to develop strong money management habits.
Budgeting: Create a budget to track expenses, including tuition, rent, books, and personal expenses.
Credit Awareness: Understand the impact of credit scores and responsible borrowing.
Loan Repayment Planning: Review loan repayment options before graduating to prepare for future obligations.
Emergency Savings: Try to set aside a small fund for unexpected expenses to avoid financial stress.
5. Seeking Support and Resources
Meet with a financial aid advisor at your college to review your package and ask questions.
Use free financial literacy resources such as Federal Student Aid (studentaid.gov) and #FirstGenTalks.
Connect with mentorship programs like #FirstGenTalks or your school’s first-gen support group to gain insights from peers and professionals.
Financial literacy is a critical skill for first-generation students, and understanding your financial aid package is a great first step. By staying informed and proactive, you can make the best financial decisions for your education and future. Use this Financial Literacy Month to review your aid, meet deadlines, and build strong financial habits that will serve you well beyond college.
For more resources and tips, follow #FirstGenTalks and stay connected with the first-gen community!