First Blazers
A First-Gen Peer Mentoring Program
Are you a first-generation UAB student looking for support, guidance, and community? Then, become a First Blazer!
The First Blazer program supports first-gen students in transitioning to life at UAB by connecting them with peer groups made up of first-year, first-gen students and led by upper-class first-gen mentors. Each month, First Blazers meet with their upper-class mentors—creating a space for first-gen students to support each other in their journeys to graduation.
Throughout your year in First Blazers, you will build a community of support consisting of supportive mentors and peers, accessible resources, service opportunities, and social engagement. In addition to monthly meetings with a first-gen peer mentor, first-year students will have the opportunity to participate in service projects, take part in small group activities, support the National First-Generation Celebration Day, and get to know fellow first-gen, first-year Blazers.
Joining First Blazers is not only the start of a successful first year at UAB but also the first step in your journey towards graduation.
Eligibility
To become a member of First Blazers, a student must be a UAB first-generation college student. At UAB, we define first-generation students as those whose parents, stepparents, and/or legal guardians have not earned an undergraduate degree. Having parents, stepparents, or legal guardians who have earned associate degrees and/or credit towards post-secondary graduation does not disqualify you from this program.
Members must also be first-year students enrolled full-time (12 hours) for the academic year.
Students currently receiving support from one of UAB’s TRIO programs are not eligible for First Blazers.
Application Process
The First Blazer application opens June 1st when first-year students begin attending summer orientation sessions. Applications close on August 31st.
First Blazer mentees will attend an orientation meeting with all participants and mentors in early September to meet their mentee group and mentor, review program expectations, receive the meeting schedule, and discuss program events.
Benefits of Becoming a First Blazer
First-gen students who participate in First Blazers during their first year benefit from the program’s focus on peer mentoring, and this type of peer support is proven to result in better academic performance, higher rates of persistence and graduation, and a stronger sense of belonging on campus.
During your peer mentoring meetings and small group activities, First Blazers receive practical advice, encouragement, and support and develop communication, study, and academic skills. Additionally, these peer interactions can increase your social and academic confidence, help you transition from high school to the college setting, and assist you in identifying goals and strategies for accomplishing these.