Going to college, I didn’t realize I’d have to buy these things. And I felt so dumb seeing what a big deal other families made of buying nice bedding for their kids…like it was a rite of passage.
~Alex
As high school graduation season quickly approaches, stores like Target and Bed Bath & Beyond are preparing for “campus ready shopping events,” college registries, and so-called dorm must-haves. But if you or your student has little or no college-going experience, the whole process can feel overwhelming. In her memoir, Becoming, even Michelle Obama, also a first-gen student, describes how she brought the wrong-sized sheets with her to college.
Below is a list of recommended gifts for first-generation college students that speak to their specific needs.
In case of emergency
Cash or gift cards are an obvious choice for students. Given the increasing price of tuition and expenses, any financial support would be appreciated. Of particular note is the cost of textbooks; therefore, consider cards from Amazon and Barnes & Nobles national booksellers.
Reduce the digital divide
Although often not stated openly, most professors presume that students have access to their own individual laptop. And while there may be computer labs on campus, students should not rely solely on them. If possible, consider a crowd fund for a reliable laptop with Microsoft Office Suite. This is a great investment.
I was actually given a picture frame with a cute letter written by my friends. And I put it on my desk in my dorm and it helped me remember my friends from back home. –Fatima
Making the connection
Because it is common for first-gen students to experience self-doubt or imposter syndrome, they could benefit from gifts that affirm their place at the university and remind them of their goals. These could include photo albums, affirmational signs, picture frames and the like. Also, help them develop their school spirit with a university pennant or something related to the city/area where their school is located.
Commuter students often describe feeling disconnected from the university, so school memorabilia (including sweatshirts or water bottles) and license plate or university stickers with the school name would be appreciated. Note: also consider gifts that will ease their travel, such as gift cards for gas or pre-paid bus passes or tokens.
Some students need new bags or backpacks that are strong and durable. I’ve seen so many college students struggling to carry their clothing to and from home without luggage or even their books and laptop to class in a bag with severe wear and tear.
–Michaela
Reading material
Aside from having access to class textbooks, your first-gen collegian could also benefit from college guides, such as The Naked Roommate. These are useful in helping to explain college terms and to help the student know what to expect in their new environment.
Many students can also benefit from a credible book of citation styles (e.g., APA and Chicago), which will benefit them beyond the first-year. Faculty may expect that students already are familiar with these different styles, so the student will thank you later for this one!
Finally, there a number of memoirs or novels written by former-first gen students that the student might be able to relate to, including: Becoming (Michelle Obama), Make Your Home Among Strangers (Jennine Capo Crucet), and Binge (TylerOakley).
Happy Meals
Whether they live at home or in the residence halls, unfortunately, it is common for today’s college students to struggle with food insecurity or to have limited access to healthy food. Do your part by offering a basket of healthy snacks to get through long classes and odd gaps before one has the chance to eat a full meal at home or in the dining hall. Additionally, microwave popcorn helps build community for those living in residence halls. The buttery smells may draw others out of their rooms and provide opportunities to make new friends. Finally, a student would also appreciate a gift card to a local restaurant,so that they can treat themselves every now and then for a job well done without financial stress.
One of the best graduation gifts I received was a leather portfolio. It was a gift from one of my Mom’s co-workers. I remember opening it and thinking how professional it looked. I took it to college with me and was almost afraid to carry it at first. I didn’t want to ruin it. But then it went everywhere with me, and I would use it especially for interviews and important meetings. I feel silly admitting it, but it was sort of like putting on some armor—it helped keep that Imposter Syndrome in check. Twenty years later, it’s sitting here on my desk. –Lori
Pre–professional resources that prepare students for jobs also are valuable, especially for transfer students who have to begin thinking about career and post-graduation opportunities fairly quickly. These include but are not limited to: business casual clothes, business cards or membership to a professional organization.
Finally, passion planners have becoming increasingly popular, as they are useful for helping students to identify and map out their goals. This one was designed by UCLA alumna, Angelia Trinidad, herself a first-gen student!
Some schools may require or suggest that students bring particular supplies, bedding and even laptops, so be on the lookout for that information. Additionally, if your first-gen student is living on campus, we recommend that they partner with their roommate and share the purchases for dorm supplies.
Have any more ideas? Feel free to send them here: latonya.reasemiles@gmail.com.
First Gen and Juice 