Our Mission
Plug the university outcomes gap
First-generation students are
More likely to drop out of university
Centre for Longitudinal Studies (2021). First in Family: Higher education choices and labour market outcomes. University College London
Less likely to engage in opportunities outside of the curriculum that boosts employability
The Social Mobility Advisory Group (2016). Working in partnership: enabling social mobility in higher education
80% less likely to end up in a professional role
Social Mobility Index (2019). State of the Nation Report
In partnership with universities, graduate employers, funders and supporters we equalise opportunities and break down socioeconomic barriers through a 3 strand approach:
Research & Advocacy
Amplifying the diverse voices of the first-generation student community and share their lived experiences to influence decision making.
Mobilising
Delivering trajectory transforming programmes that nurture, inspire and empower our community.
Sharing
Through our First-Generation Awareness Training, we impart knowledge and insights gathered from both secondary research and our firsthand experience working with first-generation students.
The reality of being a first-generation student navigating university (2023, surveying 53 students)
76%
Felt overwhelmed about navigating university for the first time
74%
Felt 'daunted' as a first generation student
70%
Felt intimidated navigating university with minimal support
Down to the roots
2019/20
First-hand experience
Founder, Alaya Holloway, contemplated dropping out of university, despite the bursaries, buddy schemes and university services available. Alaya noticed there wasn't timely, guidance on critical information and there was a lack of emotional support when students cross cultures, face new expectations, values and norms. After building a community Instagram account, Alaya received hundreds of messages from undergraduates across the UK, all grappling with similar difficulties. It became clear that Alaya wasn't alone, and neither were they.
2021
Innovative insights
We partnered with Innovate UK to fund research to uncover the key barriers to first-generation student success. Using inclusive design, we interviewed, surveys and led focus groups on students from intersectional lived experiences.
2022
Catalysing change
In response, we engaged our community of students across 30 UK universities, to create, collate and deliver tailored support activities. We imagined and redefined inclusive practises to enhance the student experience. We designed and delivered the Navigating University Programme, which supported 30 first-year students. The outcomes? Transformational.
2024
Contribution towards social equity
Our work in higher education innovation and social equity has been recognised by BBC News, Wonkhe, Prince’s Trust and the Princess Diana Award; The highest recognition a young person in the UK can receive for their humanitarian work. Our second pilot received applications from 1st year students across 28 UK universities, keen to engage with our community-led activities. We believe it's time to scale impact.
“As a first-generation student with two parents in non-professional careers, I often recognise differences between the support and resources available to my friends with parents who aren't first-generation students. I love the aim of this organisation and feel that this work is vital.”
Kate GregoryThe University of Sheffield
“I don't think I would have signed up to the careers events if the email came from my university. When it comes from FirstGens, you pay extra attention because you know they are looking out for you and have your best interest in mind. Through the programme, I received a bursary which I wouldn't have seen had I not been told through the programme.”
Hassan Business Student
“I was planning to defer or dropout of my first term at university until I had a 1:1 with the team while on the Navigating University Programme. They gave me hope and signposted me to the right university departments. I now feel empowered to stay on my course.”
Mia, Graphic Design Student
