FLI Resources

Research shows that students who take advantage of campus resources are more likely to succeed during their undergraduate years. Being the first in your family to attend college can be both exciting and intimidating. The college journey can often feel overwhelming, and you may encounter various challenges along the way. Some of the most common challenges faced by first-generation and/or low-income students include:

• Feeling isolated or lonely 
• Intimidated by professors and afraid to speak with them
• Dealing with impostor syndrome 
• Afraid to ask for help
• Feeling like you are the “only” one in your situation
• Having a difficult time balancing school time with responsibilities at home
• Affording day-to-day expenses
• Feeling guilty about not being home to help your family

These emotions are very common and know that you are not alone. Currently, 16% of the student body at Barnard College identify as being first-generation students. We are committed to helping all first generation and/or low income students’ transition to the Barnard community.  

Here is a list of resources specific to supporting first-generation and/or low-income students 

• 1:1 advising with you FLI advisor - meetings where you can discuss all things related to your FLI experience
• FLI community group - space for FLI students to connect and share 
• FLI Study Abroad Advising- 1:1 sessions for FLI students who are interested in going abroad in the future 
• FAFSA Renewal Assistance - 1:1 sessions with financial aid staff to assist with renewing your FAFSA application for the following academic year 
• FLI Huddle Groups- small discussion groups where students unpack challenges and topics impacting their college experience 

Here is a list of key offices on campus that are invested in your success at Barnard: 

• Access Barnard | Serves as hub of the College efforts to enhance the academic experiences, and promote the inclusion and excellence of first-generation, low-income and international students in their transition to and persistence through the Barnard experience. 
• Beyond Barnard | Offers support to students as they prepare for life after Barnard.
• Deans’ Office for Advising and Support | Provides academic and personal support to all students.
• Center for Accessibility and Disability Services (CARDS) | Assists students with disabilities in efforts to enhance their professional, education and personal development.
• Financial Aid Office | Committed to helping students and their families with financing Barnard College.  
• FLI Partnership Library | collection of expensive textbooks available for FLI students 
• Furman Counseling Center | Individual counseling services to all students.
• Primary Care Health Services | Provides clinical health care services to all students.
• Residential Life & Housing | Promotes a positive on-campus living experience.
• Student Experience and Engagement (SEE) | Helps to engage students outside of the classroom through programs and events and leadership opportunities.
• The Wellness Spot | Promote health and wellness of the Barnard study body through peer health education.

Access Barnard Pre-Orientation Program 

The Access Barnard Summer Pre-Orientation program is a chance for participating first-generation and/or low-income (FLI) and international students to get an academic and social edge, while quickly becoming familiar with campus resources and the Barnard community. Pre-Orientation also encourages students to form lasting bonds of friendship and a strong peer support network through social and co-curricular activities. 

Here are some benefits to attending the Access Barnard Pre-Orientation Program:  

• You will learn more about Barnard resources to assist in your transition to college and throughout your time at Barnard
• You will have better understanding of resources and efforts specifically for first-generation and/or low-income students 
• You have the opportunity to participate in unique and intentional sessions that will support you first-generation and/or low-income identity
• You will learn about expenses and how to be strategic about planning for your first year at Barnard and beyond 
• You will have opportunities to meet other first-year students who identify as first-generation, low-income or international
• You will meet sophomore, junior, and senior-level students, faculty, and administrators ready to orient you to college life, Barnard, and New York City
• You will feel more empowered to begin what typically feels like a daunting process 

Here are some takeaways from students who have participated in pre-orientation in the past

1. A comprehensive understanding of not only the campus but many of its widely unknown resources available for incoming first years and students in general, especially FLI students. 
2. I am fully aware of the resources and help centers available to me at Barnard and have a good understanding of who to go to when struggling either academically, socially, or mentally.
3. I learned a lot about Barnard from current students and staff - resources, first year tips, advice about the adjustment from high school to college, and more! I also really enjoyed the community bonding events that took place in the evening as it helped me interact with my peers as well as have fun