As the end of the fall semester (and final exams!) sneaks up on us, I often pause to reflect on our efforts to support 1Ls from orientation to this point. Orientation is filled with energy, introductions, and information. This is especially true for first-generation law students who are stepping into a world shaped by unfamiliar norms, expectations, and vocabulary.
First-gen students are often on my mind when we reach the first midterms and especially when we are near the first set of final exams. Schools are increasingly recognizing the importance of welcoming first-gen students during those early days, but support doesn’t end when the nametags come off. Supporting first-gen students must be embedded throughout the entire law school experience, and Academic Support programs are uniquely positioned to lead this work. Here are a few strategies to help build first-gen supports into the full semester:
- Normalize the First-Gen Experience
First-gen students often carry invisible burdens like imposter syndrome, financial strains, and uncertainty about expectations. I often hear from first-gen students that they feel they’re navigating these feelings alone. Academic support professionals know that these feelings are not unique to first-gen students but are perhaps most keenly experienced by them. This makes normalizing this experience even more helpful to supporting first-gen students. Integrate first-gen stories and perspectives into workshops, panels, newsletters, faculty conversations, and alumni events. Additionally, celebrate first-gen achievements by highlighting first-gen graduate and faculty accomplishments. When first-gen students see their experiences reflected and honored, it lessens the sense of being “the only one.”
2. Demystify the “Hidden Curriculum”
Law school is full of assumptions about what students should already know. However, first-gen students usually don’t have access to that cultural knowledge, making them feel alone and behind those who can rely on lawyers in their families to share tips and tricks. Providing ongoing instruction on topics such as outlining, interpreting feedback, networking, and navigating summer job hiring cycles can help even the playing field. While all of these are not necessarily inherent to academic support programs, there are opportunities to collaborate across departments to support students’ holistic success. All of this should not just be one session, though; integrate it into courses, workshops, and small-group coaching throughout the semester for the greatest impact.
- Foster Community, Not Just Programming
Programming alone cannot fully support students because support is relational. Instead of just adding more formal programming, create opportunities for first-gen students to connect with faculty, alumni, upper-level students, and peers. Community combats isolation and builds the sense of belonging that directly supports retention and well-being.
Faculty should also be a part of this community. Faculty often want to support first-gen students, but they may not be sure how. Offer interested faculty short, actional strategies for clarifying expectations, demystifying assignments, inviting questions, and using inclusive teaching practices. When faculty reinforce support in the classroom, students see themselves as legitimate members of the academic community.
Supporting first-generation law students beyond orientation isn’t just an equity initiative. When students feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout their law school journey, they engage more deeply, persevere through challenges, and grow into confident, capable professionals. Academic support plays a vital role in that journey. By offering continuous guidance, demystifying the law school experience, and building community, academic support programs help first-gen law students not just enter law school, but thrive within it.
(Dayna Smith)
