Chris Gray, Ph.D.
Founding President, Erie County Community College of Pennsylvania
Today, I want to talk about first-generation college students, those who enter our classrooms every semester not equipped with generational knowledge about the academic system and how it works. First-generation college students are trailblazers because they enter the unknown every day. First-generation students are defined as the first in their families to pursue higher education, so they don't have a parent to guide them through a process that can be murky and confusing. That achievement alone is remarkable!
At the same time, research shows that these students face unique challenges that can make the journey harder than it should be. At EC3, we understand those challenges and have built a college experience that helps first-generation students thrive. Nationally, more than half of current college students identify as first-generation. Yet only about one in four first-gen students earn a bachelor's degree compared to nearly three out of four continuing-generation students. That's a 50% difference, so why the gap?
I have an answer, and I believe this with all that I am: It is not about ability or ambition. It is about barriers.
First-generation students often lack what researchers call "college knowledge." They may not know how to navigate processes like financial aid, course registration, or transfer planning. Many of these students also balance school with work and family responsibilities, which adds stress and limits time for studying. Financial hardship is common, and feelings of isolation or imposter syndrome can make students question whether they belong in college at all. Without a support system at home, they can easily feel like fish out of water. If that happens, we run the risk of losing them. That, to my mind, is unacceptable.
When first-generation students succeed, however, families and communities succeed as well. These students bring determination and fresh perspectives to higher education. But without the right support, too many fall through the cracks. That is why EC3 has made first-generation success a priority from day one. We made it our business to make a difference.
At EC3, we start by listening. We know that first-generation students need clear guidance, accessible resources, extra support services, and a sense of belonging. Our approach is simple: remove barriers and create opportunities.
We make our processes transparent and easy to navigate. We provide early exposure to transfer options and career pathways so students can plan their educational path with confidence. We offer academic support that is built into the student experience, not something extra they have to find on their own. And we foster personal connections that make students feel seen and supported.
Every decision we make is guided by research and best practices. Studies show that when colleges provide proactive advising and integrated academic support, first-generation students persist and graduate at higher rates. EC3 has embraced these principles and woven them into the fabric of our college. We are committed to helping our first-gen students figure it out as they go and develop a belief that they belong — because they do.
The results speak for themselves. EC3 students outperform the majority of community college students in course success, retention, and persistence. Enrollment continues to grow because students know they will find the support they need here. For first-generation students, that support is not just helpful; it is transformative. And these students will go on to change their lives and our community.
If you are the first in your family to go to college, we want you to know that you belong here. Your goals matter, and your future matters. EC3 is here to help you achieve both. We are in this together!
Our community. Your college.
