First Generation College Students Admissions
Paving the Path Ahead
Welcome! We’re delighted you’re considering Westmont and honored to join you and your family as you explore the next steps on your college journey. Westmont is deeply committed to celebrating and supporting our students who are first in their families to attend college. You’ll find many opportunities to share your gifts and perspectives with the Westmont community. This brochure provides helpful information about resources at Westmont offering you support throughout your college years.

First Connections
A few days before the new fall semester begins, join other first-generation students and their guests at this pre-orientation gathering! You’ll appreciate this great opportunity to meet college leadership, Student Success Coaches, other first-generation students, and Westmont staff and faculty. You’ll learn more about the resources available to you as you make the transition to Westmont.
First-Gen Student Organization
The First-Gen Student Organization offers fun social and professional development opportunities. It’s a great place to make new friends!
At A Glance
20%of Westmont faculty and staff identify as first-generation |
Westmont is a proud
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17%of Westmont students identify as first-generation |
Academic Resources
Alpha Alpha Alpha Honor SocietyWestmont hosts its own chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha (also called Tri-Alpha), a national honor society for first-generation college students. We’re growing and excited to serve you! Academic AdvisorsAcademic advisors can support you in many ways. They’ll help you explore options regarding a major and career choices as they listen and learn about your strengths and weaknesses. Academic advisors also guide you when it’s time to register for classes. Career Resource CenterVisit the Career Resource Center in the Kerr Student Center (above the Dining Commons) to learn more about potential career paths, resume tips, interviewing skills, internships, and on-campus student employment. Peer Coaching ProgramPeer coaches offer personal and academic support and guidance. |
Research Help DeskLibrarians and student staff are available to help you with research projects and papers. Student Success CoachesStudent Success Coaches meet with incoming students to help with the transition to college and life on campus. Tutoring SessionsGroup and individual tutoring sessions are available for a range of general education courses. Writers’ CornerPeer tutors assist and coach other students as they mature into more skillful and confident writers. |
Staff Contacts
Eileen McMahon McQuade
Vice Provost
Sonya Welch
Coordinator of Academic Support Services
Christen Foell
Gaede Institute Director of Student Engagement, Strategic Partnerships, and Operations

News Stories
- Celebrating First-Gen College Students
- Moving First-Gen Students Forward
- Guiding Students Over Academic and Emotional Hurdles
- Focusing on First-Gen Students
- Westmont Supports First-Gen Students Through Several Initiatives
- Navigating the Journey to College
- COVE Helps Students Launch Their Lives After Westmont
- Westmont Is A Hispanic Enrolling Institution

Stay in Touch!
Please reach out with questions and let us know how we can support you! We’re here for you!
Email: firstgen@westmont.edu
Instagram: @FirstGenWestmont

