FIRST-GENERATION NETWORK
Mission
The First-Generation Network is an inclusive support network for first-generation alumni, students, and their families that provides access and opportunities for mentorship, networking, and community-building through first-hand knowledge of navigating the University of Rochester.
What does it mean to be a First-Generation student? It means that one is the first or one of the first members of a family to go to college. The First-Generation Network welcomes those who share in the first-generation experience and those who would like to participate in supporting first-generation college students and alumni from the University of Rochester.
The First-Generation Network welcomes those who share in the first-generation experience and those who would like to participate in supporting first-generation college students and alumni from the University of Rochester.
What we can do together
Turn dreams into reality.
- Share opportunities for first-generation success with our community on Facebook.
- Access first-generation resources.
- Connect with the Greene Center for Career Education and Connections to offer summer internships or full-time employment for Rochester students.
Mentor the next generation of firsts.
- Sign up for the university-wide mentorship program.
- Join the First-Generation Network group on The Meliora Collective to network with other alumni and students.
Inspire future firsts.
- Volunteer with the First-Generation Network.
Contact Us
Claudia De Leon has been with the University since June 2013, and joined Advancement’s Affinity Networks and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Programs team in July 2021. She brings a wealth of institutional knowledge, experience, and connections from working in various departments like the Center for Education Abroad, the Office of Summer and Continuing Studies, and the Office of Minority Student Affairs. Claudia utilizes her identities as a Latina and first-generation college graduate to fuel her passion to support the implementation of the Latin Alumni Network and First-Generation Network. She values authentic and meaningful connections and believes in the power of community. When she is not working, Claudia enjoys spending time with her family, listening to a wide array of music genres, and rewatching episodes of Friends.
