Texas Tech University

First-Generation Red Raiders

 

Student next to the mascot, Raider Red standing in front of a sign that says 1st Gen.
Being one of the first in your family to attend college opens a world of opportunities, and we are glad you chose to advance your education at Texas Tech University!

Attending college is an exciting time, we recognize it can be overwhelming as you navigate unique challenges. At Texas Tech, you will find various resources and a dynamic community to support your success throughout every step of your academic journey.

Defining First-Generation

At Texas Tech, a first-generation (first-gen) is defined as an individual whose parent(s) or guardian(s) have not earned a bachelor’s degree.

At Texas Tech, you may also be considered first-gen if:

  • Your parent(s) or guardian(s) attended some college but didn’t complete a four-year degree.
  • You were adopted or raised by someone who didn’t earn a four-year degree.
  • Your sibling has a college degree.
Not Sure if You're a First-Gen Student?

Reach out, and we’ll talk through your unique situation to see if you qualify for first-gen support!

Contact Us

First-Gen Community

First-Gen Red Raiders, whether students, staff, or faculty, are an important part of our community! Around campus, you will find peers who proudly identify as first-gen and are eager to connect.

There Are Over10,000First-Gen TTU Students(Fall 2023)
Among All New Students34%Are First-Gen Students(Spring 2024)
Photo of TTU two First-Gen faculty and staff smiling and performing a guns-up gesture.

Advice from Past Students

Photo of Cassandra
Being a first-generation student and part of the Red Raider family has been an experience I do not take for granted. Since starting at Texas Tech, I've grown as a student, professional, and, most importantly, as a person.
My advice to new students is not to be afraid of the unknown. While things may not seem to be pieced together right now, remember the bigger picture and why you chose Texas Tech. Opportunities are around the corner—it's up to you to leap at them and see what Texas Tech has in store for you!
Cassandra Perales
Senior, Mechanical Engineering