FEBRUARY 2021   
Welcome to the First-Generation Triton Family Connection e-Newsletter of Winter quarter: An e-newsletter for families of
UC San Diego students who are first in their family to go to college.
We provide information that will help families further support their student's college experience.
UC San Diego Tritons Firsts is a campus initiative that supports first-generation students through resources, programs, mentoring, and more. If you are wondering how to support your student or how UC San Diego helps your student succeed, this is a good place to start. Learn more.
Proud family of first-generation UC San Diego students! In this remote work setting, take advantage; download a Zoom background and flash it every time you are on a video call. Choose from many designs. Download a first-generation Zoom background now!
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
We asked families, "What would you like to say about being a parent to a first-generation student"?
"I love that my son never felt pressure from his peers to be or act somehow different from who he is and where he came from. He loves his school and is proud to be first generation student and we are certain that he will be fine."

"I'm having trouble balancing suggestions to participate in school activities and also understanding how much time needs to be committed to study. Not sure when to gauge when study time is too much, and she might be using it as way to avoid some campus activities. Concerned she may not be giving herself enough down time to relax."

"It is a bittersweet experience. Of course, I am very proud of my son and his perseverance, and all his academic achievements but it is also a challenge for me as his protective mother. I embrace this challenge and am willing to sacrifice the emotional roller coaster as we both are learning. He is learning as an independent and I am learning to let go and trust that he will make the best choices. I am so glad he was given an opportunity to experience something I never even dreamed of as a student. I can't wait to see what his future endeavors are."
Share your thoughts and story!
Tell us about your experience as a parent and family of a first-generation student by answering a few short questions to publish in the next e-newsletter. Submit today!
We asked faculty and staff, "What would you say to your first-generation college-self"?
"Don't be afraid to follow your interests even if it means doing it alone." Dan Perez, Program Coordinator, Parent & Family Programs.

"I would tell myself to continue to be curious and to continue to learn about how my values align with a higher purpose. I would also tell myself that every setback is an opportunity for growth, realignment, and strength." Lindsay Romasanta, Director Student Success Coach

"I would remind myself that my family worked hard to get me to where I am, and that I don't have to do college on my own." Karina M. Viaud, Senior Officer, Parent & Family Programs. 
Advice for first-generation students
First-generation UC San Diego professionals, who are also the first in their family to go to college, share advice with first-generation students. Watch now!
ACADEMIC SUPPORT
College Advisor
Your student can set up an appointment with an academic advisor in their college about classes, adding or dropping a class, and other related topics.
Major Advisor
Your student also has an academic advisor for their field of interest (e.g., biology, ethnic studies, linguistics). This advisor provides help specifically related to your student's major.
Professor's Office Hours
Your student can visit their professor to talk about class or questions on assignments. While remote, office hours help your student to get to know their professor and them know your student.
Teaching + Learning Commons
Your student can receive a range of academic help; from study groups to learning strategist, and tutoring to writing support. Learn more here.
FINANCIAL AWARENESS
Connect with Financial Aid and Scholarships Office by virtual counseling, email, and phone.
You and/or your student can connect with Financial Aid & Scholarships to learn options to get the help you and/or your student needs.
Your student can apply now for financial aid with FAFSA or CA Dream Act. The official deadline is March 2. Don't wait to the last minute.
GET CONNECTED
Return to Learn Family Webinar
The latest Return to Learn Webinar for families informs you of UC San Diego's approach toward a safe campus during the pandemic. View now.
UC San Diego Parent & Family Programs supports families of college students. Visit our website for information on events, paying the bill, resources, student life, and more. Read more.
TPF Ambassador
Triton Parent & Family Ambassadors share their diverse perspectives with a wide range of families about their experience with UC San Diego. Join today.