Central Michigan University’s (CMU) first-generation college students make up 20% of the university’s student population. “When I first began my college journey, I had a multitude of questions,” said Heidi Garay-Estupinian, a senior from Troy and one of many first-generation students within CMU’s College of Business Administration (CBA). “Being the first in the family to go to college means you have to be the first to navigate college in all its essence — from financial aid and understanding college credits to picking an area of study.”
The Office of Student Engagement and Professional Development — more commonly known as 'the HUB'— launched in fall 2022 and serves as a one-stop-shop for students to get the support they need from the time they step on campus to when they walk across the stage at graduation.
“We see ourselves as a connector,” said Amy McGinnis, CBA’s director of student experience and a management faculty member. “There are a lot of really great things happening across CBA, and we want to be the resource to help students know what is available to them, and we want them to be able to say YES.”
Whether students need a place to study, opportunities to get involved within CBA, or just need advice, the HUB lives up to its name by being a go-to resource for students — and especially first-generation students — in need of a helping hand throughout their college careers.
"The HUB and everything it offers has been a tremendous source of support for me,” Garay-Estupinian said. “In particular, Dr. McGinnis has helped guide me throughout my journey at college. She’s held my hand through numerous job interviews and has really brought out my inner potential.”
_insertContent=53ED7107-4A3F-46E3-A1AF002529D122BA,displayTeaserInlinePromoRight_In its first cohort this academic year, the Queller Leadership Scholars Program, started through a gift by alums Dave and Penny Queller, empowers first-generation students through opportunities to engage in programming that supports professional development and fosters leadership. Students receive a financial scholarship and meet weekly to participate in programming, gain exposure to business professionals through volunteer and networking opportunities, and learn to navigate college with the support of those who have already walked a similar path.
“The hardest thing for me to navigate as a first-generation student was being on my own,” said Haylei Drope, a senior from Chesaning who is in the Queller Scholars cohort. “The support services are so helpful because they have connected me with students and faculty that are going — or have gone — through the same situation.”
For Garay-Estupinian, who is also a Queller scholar, involvement in the cohort has not just helped her refine her leadership skills — it’s brought her connection and support. “Being part of the Queller cohort has made me feel extremely supported and seen as a first-generation student who navigates a million things,” she said. “It’s such a relief to be part of a group that understands exactly what you’re going through and roots for each other’s success.” CMU and CBA also celebrated National First-Generation College Student Day on November 8.
For more information on Central Michigan University's approach, please visit their website here.
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