Header Image, Diversity and Access

First Generation Students

Welcome to the UC Davis First-Generation student resource page. Did you know that 42% of UC Davis students identify as First-Gen? You are not alone here at UC Davis and just like on campus, we want to make sure you have all the information and access to participate in Global Learning opportunities available through the Hub.

Many First-Gen students have studied abroad and/or participated in one of our many other exciting options on campus, abroad and away. Explore the resources below and reach out to us with any questions.

  • Explore

  • Academics, experiential and more—explore types of programs and figure out what is right for you.

    Interested in studying abroad or a different program model? Concerned about costs? Depending on your interests, there are many different options for you. Explore the different program types and make an appointment with an advisor to learn more.

    More ways to explore:

    o Search by Major 
    o Study Abroad options: UC Davis Faculty-led, UCEAP, Independent and more
    o Other program types: Virtual, Internships, Research and more
    o Create a Global Learning Hub profile to stay up to date on new programs and opportunities
    o Connect with a Peer Advisor – email us and ask if you can check in with a peer advisor or returnee from a study abroad program who can share their experience.

  • Plan

  • Eligibility: What is required for your program of choice?

    Review the requirements for different program types. For study abroad requirements, please look for this information on the side bar under “Enrollment and Deadlines.” For other program types, review the program webpage and reach out to the staff contact for more information. For eligibility questions about any Global Learning opportunities, you can reach out to us:

    globallearning@ucdavis.edu ♦ +1 (530) 752-5763 (phone)

    Academics: Do you need to meet with your major advisor or talk to the program coordinator?

    We encourage you to talk to as many folks as you can while exploring opportunities. Make an appointment with your major advisor, contact the program coordinator for your program or contact the instructor. This information is typically found on program webpages.

    Talking to loved ones

    Sharing your hopes and plans with family is an important step on your journey. They may have questions about safety, cost and purpose of your chosen program. Prepare some resources to share with them and review our Parent Resource. Bilingual staff are available to speak with parents upon request and availability.

    Funding: What type of financial resources will you need?

    We know that navigating funding your program can be one of the more stressful parts of starting this process. For this reason, we do our very best to support students applying for scholarships and exploring low or no-cost programs.

    o Scholarships and Funding Search Tool and Resource Page

    o Meet with a Financial Aid Officer or contact the Hub to make an appointment with our financial aid team

    o Grants, Fellowships and Research Funding

    Travel: What will you need if your program requires travel?

    For passport and related services, you can book an appointment to apply for or renew a passport on the UC Davis campus through the Business Center. If applying from another campus or city, please search for local passport centers near you. Pay close attention to the timing of your appointment and the projected time for you to receive your passport.

    Some programs will require you apply for a visa to travel. If so, please contact the program coordinator/contact person for details.

    Visit our preparing to travel page for a step-by-step guide on all things travel.

  • On Program and Upon Return

  • Resources for On-site Support

    Whatever program you choose, you will have our office as a constant resource. General resources on health and safety can be found here and academic and other resources as part of our student guide for study abroad programs. Much more is available as part of specific guides you will be provided once you sign up for any program(s). When in doubt, ask!

    Global Studies Minor

    Learn about turning your experiences into a minor.

    Academic Support

    If participating in an UC academic program, your first best resource will be your instructor. Reach out to them with any questions you may have while on program and after you finish. More academic resources and commonly asked questions for study abroad programs.

    Academic support that you can access while on campus or away is available through the Academic and Assistance Tutoring Center. Questions can be submitted and onsite and Zoom tutoring appointments are available.

    UC Davis Global Learning Conference

    Join our annual Global Learning Conference where you can network, share your story and meet and learn from others with similar and unique experiences.

    After Graduation

    Interested in continuing global learning after graduation? Many more incredible opportunities await you after you finish your degree. Explore your options and connect with our team with any questions.

First-Gen Student Spotlight: Adrian Gonzales '20

While his academic and career goals emphasize diverse viewpoints and multicultural literacy, his personal desire to explore the world and broaden his perspective has been largely inspired by his family. A first-generation college student and the son of Peruvian immigrants, Gonzales’ upbringing has been immensely impactful on his educational pursuits. Read Adrian's full story and watch his Global Aggies Spotlight:

Contact Information

Vera smiles in a black shirt in the International Center.

Vera Bell

Enrollment and Operations Officer
Global Learning Hub, Global Affairs
vabell@ucdavis.edu