First-Generation Bears Program

At Morgan State University, first-generation students are not just welcomed — they are intentionally supported, developed, and positioned to thrive. The First-Generation Bears Program, housed within the Center for Career Development, is a comprehensive career innovation initiative designed to ensure students who are the first in their families to attend college have the structure, mentorship, and exposure needed to succeed academically and professionally.

Through early identification, peer mentorship, L.I.F.E. Leadership Labs, and intentional career preparation, the program strengthens retention, builds leadership capacity, and connects students directly to internships, employers, and post-graduation opportunities. This initiative is powered by a $300,000 grant from the Strada Education Foundation, reinforcing Morgan’s commitment to equitable access, career mobility, and long-term success for first-generation scholars.

Nearly 40% of Morgan students identify as first-generation. While many navigate financial pressures, unfamiliar systems, and added responsibilities, they also bring resilience, ambition, and cultural strength that enrich our campus community. The First-Generation Bears Program builds on those strengths — pairing students with trained peer mentors, connecting them with employer partners such as the Department of State, NSA, Bloomberg, Capital One, Deloitte, and Under Armour, and leveraging platforms like Navigate360 and Handshake to track progress and expand opportunity.

This program is more than a resource. It is a commitment — to close opportunity gaps, increase retention and graduation rates, and ensure that first-generation students graduate career-ready and confident. By centering mentorship, measurable outcomes, and industry alignment, Morgan State University is setting a national example of how institutions can transform education-to-employment pathways for first-generation students — one scholar at a time.

The First-Generation Bears Program is made possible by the generous contributions of our Partners at the STRADA Education Foundation

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Who is considered a first-generation student?

A first-generation student is defined as a student whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not graduate with a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university.

Is the program open to all majors?

Yes. The First-Generation Bears Program is open to students from all academic majors.

Are there costs to participate?

There is no cost to participate; however, attendance at required leadership labs and career development events is expected.

What are the eligibility requirements?

First-generation students must be enrolled full-time (minimum 12 credit hours) during their first year of study at Morgan State University.

How long does the program last?

The First-Generation Bears Program provides structured support beginning in the first year and continuing through the sophomore year, with ongoing access to Center for Career Development resources beyond formal program completion.

Students who successfully complete the program may also apply to serve as peer mentors within the First-Gen Bears Program in their junior and senior years, continuing their leadership development while supporting the next cohort of first-generation scholars.

What is required of participants?

Students are expected to maintain professional communication, attend required events, meet with assigned peer mentors, complete designated surveys, and actively engage in career development milestones.

What are L.I.F.E. Leadership Labs?

L.I.F.E. Labs are structured leadership and career development sessions focused on building professional competencies, financial literacy, interpersonal skills, and experiential learning strategies.

How do I apply or get involved?

Students interested in joining the First-Generation Bears Program may begin by scheduling a First-Gen Introduction Appointment through Handshake under “First-Generation Student Support” to review eligibility and learn more about the program structure and expectations.

Students may also complete the First-Gen Bears Membership + Mentor Matching Form to formally express interest in participation. Once the form is submitted and eligibility is confirmed, students will be matched with a peer mentor and invited to officially join the program.

Early engagement is strongly encouraged to maximize access to mentorship, leadership labs, and career development opportunities.

Who can serve as a peer mentor?

Upper-class students who meet eligibility requirements may apply to become First-Gen Bears Peer Mentors. Training and selection processes are required. First-Gen Bears Peer Mentor Application.