Connect with First-Generation Students!

FIRST Look provides a unique platform for first-generation college students to establish valuable connections among themselves while gaining insights into the resources available at IC through a first-gen perspective.

Discover the essence of being a first-generation student by interacting with upperclassmen, acquainting yourself with the Ithaca area, and engaging in fun activities like peach picking at Indian Creek Farms, exploring Ithaca Commons, or enjoying mini-golf at Science Center Ithaca. 

At IC, we define ‘first-generation’ as a student’s (and their siblings) who are first in their family to attend and graduate from a four-year residential college in the United States. If this speaks to you or if you identify as a first-generation college student, feel free to join us for this program! 

If you resonate with this opportunity or identify as a first-generation college student, we warmly invite you to participate in our program! 

In this program, participants will:

  • Develop awareness of what it means to be a first-generation student at Ithaca College.
  • Learn all about the Ithaca College First Generation Center, along with the resources the Center provides.
  • Create community within the first-generation student population and connect with upperclassmen.
  • Connect with Ithaca College staff who identify themselves as first-generation.
  • Explore and engage in local Ithaca activities
  • Build resiliency and skills to successfully transition from High School students to an Ithaca Bomber! 
Program Logistics
  • New students can participate in this Jumpstart program on August 18-19, 2025
  • Jumpstart participants will move into their residence hall rooms on Monday, August 18 between 9:00am - 4:00pm.
  • The program runs from 5:00 to 8:00pm on Monday (includes a welcome BBQ!), approximately 9:00am-6:00pm on Tuesday, with a Jumpstart closing event on Tuesday evening.
  • A program-specfic lunch will be provided for participants of this program on Tuesday, all other meals will be covered by your IC meal plan in the dining hall. Transportation and all program materials are provided for this program.
  • Participants will be engaged in fun activities; please for the weather and wear shoes that will allow you to walk more than a mile and be on your feet for several hours throughout the day.
  • There is no charge for this program.