Starting college is a serious step. If you’re the first in your family to go to college, you already know it’s a big deal. Everything’s new — from financial aid forms to figuring out where you fit. That is why Cairn University has built support systems that meet you where you are. Here are 5 on-campus resources for first-generation college students.
1. The Pathway Center: Guiding You from College to Calling
The Pathway Center helps Cairn University students prepare for life after college through career development and leadership exploration. You can get help writing a resume, preparing for interviews, or finding internships that fit your goals. This is especially beneficial for first-generation students navigating post-college plans. Staff helps you think beyond a job title and towards what God’s actually calling you to do.
Whether you’re preparing for a big interview, or planning next steps after graduation, the Pathway Center is here to walk with you. Meetings are available in person or online. Just visit the Pathway Center to get started.
2. Academic Advisors who Care and Resources that Work
Every Cairn student, whether studying in person or online, is paired with an academic advisor who provides personalized support throughout their college journey. Advisors will meet with you to register for courses and give thoughtful academic advice, keeping you on track until graduation. First-generation college students benefit greatly from this type of tailored guidance. They’re not just here to sign your forms. They’re mentors.
In addition to academic advising, our Academic Resource Center (ARC) is equipped with support for students of all skill levels. The ARC resources include a writing lab, tutoring, mentoring, disability services, and special “how-to” workshops. First-generation college students like you bring strength and determination to their studies. At Cairn, you’ll have the right resources to turn that determination into success.
3. First Generation College Student Scholarship
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Ninety-seven percent of our undergraduate full-time students receive some form of financial assistance. Our Financial Aid team can help you explore grants, scholarships, and loans so you can focus less on the cost, and more on the calling God has placed before you. Plus, first-generation college students can apply for a $500 scholarship to help with things like books, equipment, or other first-semester essentials. If you’d like to apply for the First-Generation College Student Scholarship, notify your Cairn University admissions counselor and they can assist you.
4. The Center for Christian Counseling & Relationship Development
College can bring challenges that go beyond coursework. The Center for Christian Counseling & Relationship Development (CCCRD) offers Christ-centered care for your emotional and spiritual well-being.
It’s a safe and caring space where you can talk through stress, relationships, or personal growth. The staff includes licensed psychologists, therapists, and master’s-level interns trained in both biblical and human sciences. The CCCRD is an essential resource for students seeking emotional support. Learn more about CCCRD resources here.
5. Community that feels like Family
The most valuable part of college isn’t found simply in what you learn, but who you walk through it with. At Cairn University, professors, staff, and students share life together. Faculty pray with each other weekly. Resident Directors and Resident Assistants check in, encourage, and challenge you to grow. Between attending chapels, eating meals with friends, joining a club, or being a student athlete, you will surely experience a culture of connection, rooted in something bigger.
Because college shouldn’t be just a place you get a degree, it should be a place for real transformation and growth. Being a first-generation college student isn’t always easy but it’s an accomplishment to be proud of! We pray at Cairn University you will find a community that is ready to help you on your journey.
