University of Michigan Launches First-Generation Sophomore

The University of Michigan is launching a new program aimed at supporting first-generation college students during their sophomore year. The LSA First Fellows initiative, set to begin in January, will offer a one-credit course, team-based mentoring, community events, and a $4,000 award for a summer experiential learning opportunity to every participant.

Rosario Ceballo, dean of the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), said the idea came from focus groups with first-generation students. They reported a significant decline in structured support after their first year on campus. John Vasquez, the university's assistant vice provost for student success, will lead the program.

Program Components and Structure

First Fellows is designed to bring together several forms of support for first-generation sophomores. The program's elements are built to address academic, financial, and social challenges.

The program includes four key components:

• A one-credit course. This course will cover topics like selecting majors, finding research and internships, building financial literacy, and preparing for life after college.
• Team-based mentoring. Each student will connect with a small network of faculty, staff, and peers for guidance.
• Community-building. Fellows will participate in events with other first-generation students and have chances to connect with alumni.
• Summer funding. Every fellow receives $4,000, funded by philanthropy, for a summer experience after their sophomore year.

Addressing the Sophomore-Year Gap

Dean Ceballo explained that the intense support of the first year often vanishes for sophomores. She cited sociologist Vincent Tinto's view that access without adequate support does not create real opportunity. This is particularly relevant at a large, decentralized institution like the University of Michigan.

"It cuts across race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, geographic location," Ceballo said. "This is a very heterogeneous group of students, and one of the commonalities that they share is difficulty handle the complexity and the size of an institution like the University of Michigan."

She emphasized the university's responsibility to make resources feel accessible. "If students don’t have someone who can help them go to an office, if students don’t have meaningful connections..." Ceballo added.

The Role of Summer Funding

The $4,000 summer award is a central feature intended to remove financial barriers. John Vasquez noted that students with fewer resources may not afford unpaid internships or the cost of relocating for one.

"We have students who come from rural areas that want to do an internship, say, in New York or L.A." Vasquez said. The funding is about "actually allowing folks to do the things we know they can do."

The timing is intentional. An exploratory experience after sophomore year can help inform major declarations and plans for the final two years of college. Vasquez said the goal is to help students narrow their focus so they return for junior year with clearer direction.

Integration and Future Goals

First Fellows is part of LSA First-Gen Pathways, a coordinated effort that also includes the Kessler Scholars Program and the Comprehensive Studies Program. First-generation students make up about 18 percent of LSA's undergraduate population.

"What we’re trying to do is really create a cohesive system so that students don’t have to go look for the opportunities," Vasquez said. "First Fellows is just the first piece of that broader ecosystem that we’re developing."

Once the program starts, the college will track metrics like retention, graduation rates, participation in experiential learning, and students' sense of belonging. Ceballo said they will also assess if the program helps students make earlier, more informed academic choices.

"Scaling that for thousands of students-that’s hard, but it’s so important," Ceballo said. "That’s what I’m hoping that we will be able to show that we can do."