Program Overview

Introduction to the First-Gen Mentor Program

The First-Gen Career Mentor Program is designed to create meaningful, career-focused relationships that help students reach their career potential. This program pairs current first-generation LSU students with first-generation professionals to build their professional skills and prepare them for success in their careers.

Definition of First-Generation Students

First-generation students are defined as students whose parents or guardians did not complete a bachelor's degree. This definition also includes students whose parents or guardians completed a college degree outside of the United States.

Program Structure

The First-Gen Mentor program is a four-part virtual workshop series that takes place annually from January to April. All sessions are held from 5 6 p.m. (CST).

Program Dates

• Mentor Kickoff Meeting: Wednesday, January 21, 2026 (virtual)
• Student Kickoff Meeting: Thursday, January 22, 2026 (in-person)
• January Workshop: Wednesday, January 28, 2026 (virtual)
• February Workshop: Wednesday, February 25, 2026 (virtual)
• March Workshop: Wednesday, March 18, 2026 (virtual)
• April Workshop: Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (virtual)
• End-of-Program Celebration: Wednesday, April 15, 2026 (in-person)

Application and Deadline

The application for the Spring 2026 cohort opens on November 1, 2025. The deadline to apply is Sunday, December 14, 2025.

Program Resources

Resources are available to help make mentoring easier, including:

• Guiding mentoring principles
• Mentoring conversation guide
• Initial conversation guide
• Questions to ask your mentor

Graduation Celebration

First-generation college students can celebrate their achievement with a special cord. The cord is sky blue, signifying celebration and the elevation of first-generation college students and their communities.

Career Readiness

The program aims to get students career-ready through various resources and support, including practice interviewing and visiting LSU Student Support Services.