First Generation College Students
First-Generation College Students are the first members of their immediate family to attend college in the United States. Many first-generation college students experience unique strengths and challenges in the pursuit of a college education. Many of them may have to learn to adjust to the academic culture while maintaining the culture and traditions of their family of origin. Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is committed to supporting and nurturing students’ intellectual, social, personal, and professional development by maximizing their use of available resources within the university and in the larger community.
Common experiences for First-Generation Students
These are some experiences that a counselor may be able to assist you with:
- Adjusting to the university culture and the college environment.
- Time management to meet the demands of academic, personal, and family responsibilities.
- Career options or indecision.
- Doubts about graduation.
- Relationship difficulties.
- Talking to family about college.
Get involved on Campus
CAPS recognizes the importance of being involved on campus, therefore, we encourage students to find events, activities, departments, and organizations that interest and serve their needs.
- Visit the UH calendar to learn about events on campus, many are free or offer a student discount.
- Become involved in a student organization or student activity.
- Familiarize yourself with different campus departments that can address specific concerns, meet specific needs, and offer specialized programs.
The following is an abbreviated list of departments:
- African American Studies
- Asian American Studies Center
- Center for Diversity and Inclusion
- Center for Mexican American Studies
- Justin Dart, Jr. Student Accessibility Center
- Challenger Program
- International Student and Scholar Services
- LAUNCH
- LGBTQ Resource Center
- Office of Registration and Academic Records
- Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid
- UH Cougar Promise
- Student Health Center
- University Career Services
- Center for Student Empowerment
- Women and Gender Resource Center
- UH Writing Center
How can CAPS help me?
Clinicians on staff offer individual, couples, and group counseling to support you in addressing the challenges of college.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, or are experiencing difficulty balancing your academic, social, financial, and family responsibilities, please do not hesitate to contact CAPS; clinicians are trained to assist you in addressing your concerns. For more information regarding seeking CAPS services or to schedule a First Visit (Triage) contact 713-743-5454. If you feel more comfortable expressing your concerns in another language, the following languages are spoken at CAPS: Danish, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Portuguese and Vietnamese.
Current Programming for Fall 2013:
Workshop Series