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First Generation Students

Resources for First Generation Student Success at MCAD.

Welcome to MCAD! We are thrilled that you have chosen our community of artists, designers, and cultural leaders.

You're joining a cohort of intelligent, talented students from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, ethnic, and familial backgrounds. More than one in four first year students at MCAD are the first in their families to attend college. Current MCADians come from 45 states and 15 countries, and over 97% receive some form of financial aid. No matter your story, you belong at MCAD.

As a first generation college student, we know you may face challenges navigating the transition to college, and want to ensure that you find a supportive home at MCAD. We've gathered some useful information to get you started, but don't be shy! When you come across questions, or need more information, reach out to any of the resources listed and they will happily guide you in the right direction.


Seek academic support early! Please see:
  • Faculty, Department Chairs
  • Student Affairs staff
  • Learning Center staff and tutors
  • Career Development staff
Be proactive about finances. For assistance, please see:
  • Financial Aid staff
  • Student Accounts staff
Get involved in the MCAD community. Consider participating in:
  • Student Clubs
  • Student Union (Government)
  • Student Activities
Be conscious of your workload. For assistance, please see:
  • Faculty, Department Chairs
  • Learning Center staff
Identify your support system. They are:
  • Faculty
  • Resident Assistant
  • Peer Mentor
  • Learning Center staff
  • Student Affairs staff
  • Friends and family
Take care of yourself! Resources available:
  • Student Counseling
  • Free bikes to use from Student Affairs
  • Get enough sleep
  • Eat a balanced diet
  • Get exercise: Walk and bike paths, group exercise





Below is a list of resources for first generation students at MCAD. This list is provided by the Student Affairs office. Student Affairs is available to help out in any way that we can. If you cannot find the resources that you need here, or elsewhere online, feel free to contact us directly. We are here to help.

General questions and support: MCAD Student Affairs

... ... ...

Financial Aid questions: Finacial Aid Office

Student Billing / Payment questions: Business Office

Tutoring / Help With Study Skills: The Learning Center

Mental Health / Counseling: Student Counseling and Wellness

Academic Questions / Advising: Academic Advising

Housing Questions: Student Housing

Student Clubs: MCAD Student Clubs

Disability Resources: The Learning Center

Career planning: Career Development