Connecting first-generation, limited-income, and historically underrepresented students to enhance support and resources to improve retention and graduation rates (e.g., FSW Anchors Program, first-generation initiatives, etc.)
FSW Anchors Program
FSW Anchors is a student success program that provides comprehensive support in academics, professional development, and personal growth for students. It focuses on enhancing retention and graduation rates for first-generation, low-income, and students with unique abilities. Students in the program can expect to:
- Increase their GPA
- Get connected to mentors – both inside and outside of the college – to provide guidance and advice
- Receive enhanced support from offices such as Academic Advising, Adaptive and Care Services, Financial Aid and more
- Get help navigating the transfer or job-seeking process so that you can be prepared for life after you graduation
FSW is committed to helping students achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. We offer regular check-ins and ongoing support throughout the semester to ensure students stay on track and on the path to graduate.
Eligibility Requirements
Participants must be FSW students working towards an Associate's or Bachelor's Degree or Certificate. They must also meet any of the following criteria:
- First-Generation (neither parent has a four-year bachelor's degree)
- Low income (based on federal guidelines)
- Documented disability
First-Generation Initiatives
FSW is certified by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) as a First Generation Forward College, supporting first-generation college students. This designation recognizes our commitment to enhancing the experiences and success of first-generation students, who are the first in their families to earn a 4-year degree. Approximately 41% of FSW students fall into this category. We offer various events, activities, and workshops specifically tailored for first-generation students,
For more information about First-Gen Forward, click on the following link: https://firstgen.naspa.org/.
For more information about First-Gen events, activities, and workshops, click on the following link to Bucs Corner: https://fsw.presence.io/
Tri-Alpha Honor Society
FSW's Tri-Alpha chapter is dedicated to celebrating the academic achievements of first-generation college students. This national honor society promotes leadership and provides support networks for its members.
Membership benefits include:
- Lifetime membership with certificate and pin
- Recognition and encouragement for academic achievement
- Networking with first-generation scholars
- Enhanced visibility to employers, professionals, and higher education insitutitions
- Mentorship opportunities with peers, faculty, staff, and alumni
- Leadership roles in local chapters
To be eligible for Tri-Alpha membership, you must:
- Be enrolled in a degree-seeking program at FSW
- Have completed at least three full-time terms of study (equivalent to a minimum of 30 credit hours)
- Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.2
- Neither of your parents nor any legal guardians have earned a bachelor’s degree
For more information about First-Gen Forward, click on the following this link: https://firstgen.naspa.org/
If you are a first generation student and want to join Tri-Alpha, click on the button below to email us for more information.