First View, a summer transition program designed to support first-generation college students as they begin their journey at Vanderbilt, debuted last summer. Developed in partnership with the student organization FirstVU, the initiative welcomed a cohort of domestic and international students from various majors. Now, with the spring semester coming to a close, participants are reflecting on their first year at Vanderbilt: the successes, challenges and how First View helped prepare them for life at Vanderbilt.
Program Details and Participation
First View’s five-week summer transition program launched in early July, featuring a series of eight online sessions focused on four key areas: My Identity, My Crew, My Future and My VU. These sessions were led by Vanderbilt administrators including Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Tiffiny Tung, Dean of Residential Colleges Melissa Gresalfi and Associate Provost of Academic Opportunity Jeremi London. Faculty and staff members also hosted optional office hours throughout the program’s duration. Approximately 30 students consistently engaged in the program’s activities.
Before the first session, the inaugural cohort completed the Clifton Strengths Assessment, which helped shape discussions on personal goals, career interests and identity. The assessment also guided the formation of peer mentoring pods based on participants’ strengths.
First View is a collaborative effort involving university administrators, faculty, staff and students. A key component of the program is its partnership with FirstVU, a student-run organization that supports and connects first-generation college students at Vanderbilt. FirstVU leaders played an active role in the program, presenting during student-led sessions and Q&A panels. The organization’s name also served as inspiration for the program’s title: First View.
Student facilitators were integral to the program, leading discussions on topics such as navigating campus resources and time management. Daniela Guevara, a student mentor, emphasized the importance of addressing challenges specific to first-generation students:
“From understanding how to navigate imposter syndrome to learning how to budget, it was important to tackle common stigmas in our community—like the challenges of asking for help and feeling a lack of belonging. As a mentor, I was able to foster a community with the incoming class and ease some of their worries as they prepared to come to Vanderbilt. I strongly believe First View is beneficial, and I hope to see this initiative grow as we continue to support and advocate for first-generation students on campus.”
The program concluded with an ice cream social on Move-In Day, giving participants an opportunity to talk with fellow first-generation students and faculty in person, form friendships and share stories about the launching into this new learning adventure at Vanderbilt.
Continued Support and Growth
With the end of the academic year approaching, First View participants are applying the lessons and connections they built last summer. One key takeaway from the program is the importance of building multiple layers of community to thrive in college. Vanderbilt offers numerous opportunities to join student organizations and connect with peers who share similar interests. First View students continue to discover their sense of belonging through these connections.
Moses Bandura, a First View mentee, shared how the program influenced his academic experience:
“One of the most memorable moments for me was the opportunity to speak with Professor Sean McAfee from the Department of Mathematics. It wasn’t just his expertise that left an impression—it was his story. Seeing someone who started out just like me and made it to the top of their field was a reminder I didn’t know I needed: It’s possible.”
Looking Ahead
Plans for the second cohort of First View are underway. This year, the virtual program will take place over a two-week period from May 26 to June 5 and will culminate with an ice cream social on Move-In Day. London is recruiting facilitators for each topic and students from the first cohort to lead the Q&A sessions.
With their first year at Vanderbilt nearing its final stretch, first-generation students in First View are building on a foundation of growth and support. Participants and program leaders alike look forward to strengthening the relationships and resources that have shaped their journey so far.
