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  1. Home
  2. Summer Access Programs

Penn State Abington First Gen Scholars

What is First Gen Scholars?

first gen logo

The FIRST GEN Scholars Program offers support to motivated first-year, first generation** students who are local and out of state. It provides access to resources*, services, and programs including a residential summer experience that prepares them for a successful transition into the college environment. 

Students have the opportunity to become employed as FIRST GEN peer mentors beginning in their sophomore year. 

*Chromebooks are available on an as-needed basis. 

**First-generation is defined by any student whose parents have not completed a Bachelor's degree in the U.S. 

Program Requirements

  • First Generation
  • Successful Admission Interview with Program Staff 
  • Summer Virtual/ Residential Program Participation

Program Timeline

  • Application deadline: April 1 
  • Decision notification: April 15 (based on interview completion) 
  • Upon acceptance: FIRST GEN letter and Welcome to PSU kits mailed 
  • May 1: Decision Day on Campus & Welcome Party 
  • Virtual Program Dates: 10 am -3 pm on 6/26, 6/28, 7/6, 7/7, 7/10, 7/12 
  • Residential Experience at Lions Gate - Friday, July 14th 5-7 p.m. 
  • Wednesday, July 19th 
    • New Student Orientation w/ Families – 8 a.m.-3 p.m. 
    • Closing Ceremony & Dinner/ Move Out – 4-7 p.m.  
  • Fall semester: 2-credit CNED 97 course 
  • Spring semester: 1-credit CNED 97 course 
Two students cooking brownies at Lions Gate

Summer Bridge

  • Virtual Cohort Weekly Workshops 

  • English/Math Academy 

  • Residential Week Live in - On Campus 

  • Social/Cultural Immersion Trips/Activities 

Course Overview

Fall: CNED 97 (2 credits) 

  • Supports transition to college and growth development 

  • Dedicated peer mentor. for daily support 

  • Mentoring group 

  • Mandatory tutoring 

  • Community-building activities 

  • Campus resource connections 

Spring: CNED 97 (1 credit) 

  • Personal and professional development
  • Major exploration
  • Leadership development

How Do I Apply?

  • Apply at https://bit.ly/FIRSTGENfall23App by April 1

Contact [email protected] for more information, questions, or concerns.   

Summer Access Programs

  • Achieve Scholars
  • Engineering Ahead @ Penn State Abington
  • Penn State Abington First Gen Scholars
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Penn State Abington

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