What is a First-Generation Student?

According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success (an initiative of the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators, Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and Suder Foundation), being a first-gen student means that your parent(s) did not complete a 4-year college or university degree, regardless of other family member's level of education. This is applicable to approximately 54% of students in the United States.

There are several federally funded grants out of the U.S. Department of Education. Through grant competitions, funds are awarded to institutions of higher education to provide opportunities for academic development, assist students with basic college requirements, and to motivate students toward successful completion of their postsecondary education.

Dating back to 1964 the government has offered federally- funded college opportunity programs that motivate and support students from disadvantaged backgrounds in their pursuit of a college degree. Over 1,000,000+ low-income, first- generation, and students with disabilities - from sixth grade through college graduation - are served nationally. Through programs who provide academic tutoring, personal counseling, mentoring, financial guidance, and other supports necessary for educational access and retention. The goal of this program is to motivate and support students who are first-generation or low-income or have a disability to pursue and attain a college degree.

Who Can Participate in Level-Up SSP?

A student is eligible to participate in Level-Up SSP if the below requirements are met. Identifies as the following:

  • A First-Generation College Student (neither parent has a four-year college degree); and/or

    • an individual with a documented disability
    • Qualifies as an individual with low-income via federal law
  • Is enrolled or accepted for enrollment as a full-time, degree seeking student, at Prairie View A&M University
  • Is a citizen or national of the U.S. or meets the residency requirement for Federal student financial assistance

The Level-Up First-Generation Student Support Program is dedicated to providing support for First- Generation students and their families by offering connections to resources, creating networking opportunities, fostering community, promoting academic success and raising awareness of the importance of this student population.

At Prairie View A&M University the program serves a cohort of 300 undergraduate students per grant year. The Level-Up program is designed to help optimize the student’s Prairie View A&M University experience, achievement of educational success and attainment of career goals. Program staff serves as the students’ guide to academic success and lead them towards timely completion of their bachelor’s degree. The programs and services of Level-Up First-Generation Student Support Program will help students remain in good academic standing, explore career or graduate school options, maximize their financial aid, manage their time and finances, strengthen their study skills, develop their personal growth and leadership skills and manage academic and personal stress. The program motivates students to set higher personal and academic goals, while holding students accountable for demonstrating attitudes and behaviors that are critical for success. Level-Up First- Generation Student Support Program at Prairie View A&M University is a team-based and community focused on involvement, engagement, and student success. The overall objectives of this program will be:

  1. Enhance Academic Success
  2. Foster a Sense of Belonging
  3. Promote Personal and Professional Development
  4. Improve Graduation Rates

Mailing Address

Level-Up First-Generation Student Program
John B. Coleman Library
Room 306B University Dr.
Prairie View, TX 77445

Hours of Operation

Monday- Friday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Phone: 936-261-1428

Program Staff

Program Coordinator
Aeren J. Bates
Phone: 936-261-1428
Email: ajbates@pvamu.edu