How to Stand Out as a First-Gen College Applicant

Even former First Lady Michelle Obama, a proud first-generation college student, once battled self-doubt on her journey to higher education. Despite a counselor telling her she wasn't “Princeton material,” she not only earned her bachelor's degree from Princeton University but went on to earn a law degree from Harvard Law School—making her a double Ivy League graduate.

In a 2024 speech to high school students, she shared:

“I remember when I was in your shoes, and no matter how hard I worked to prepare, I had this little voice in the back of my head telling me that maybe, just maybe, I didn't belong. I know that it is easy to write yourself off even before your foot is in the door.”
— Michelle Obama (People, 2024)

Her words—and her journey—are a powerful reminder that uncertainty is normal, but it doesn't define your potential. Your story belongs on a college campus, and you are more than capable of thriving there.

How to Craft a Powerful Personal Statement

Your college essay is your chance to speak directly to admissions officers. First-gen students often worry they have “nothing special” to say. But in reality, you have something most applicants don't: a unique, compelling narrative.

Tips for First-Gen College Essay Success:

1. Start with a defining moment.
   Think of a moment that changed your perspective—maybe the first time you saw a college campus, helped a family member through a challenge, or realized what you want to do with your life. It doesn't need to be dramatic—it just needs to be meaningful to you.
2. Be authentic and honest.
   Admissions officers don't expect perfection—they're looking for a real voice. Write how you speak, share your thoughts honestly, and avoid trying to sound overly formal or “impressive.” Your voice is enough.
3. You don't need to tell a hardship story.
   Yes, many first-gen students face obstacles, but your essay doesn't have to focus on adversity to be powerful. You can write about curiosity, identity, pride, community, motivation, or your passion for a subject. Your joy and goals are just as valid as your struggles.
4. Reflect on how you've grown.
   What have your experiences taught you? How have they shaped the way you think? Colleges want to know how you make sense of your journey, not just what happened.
5. Use specific examples.
   Don't just say you're hardworking or responsible—show it. For example, you might describe what it was like balancing a part-time job with school, managing family responsibilities, or leading a student group.
6. Connect your past to your future.
   Admissions officers want to see your potential. Talk about how your experiences have shaped your interests and goals, and why college is your next step.

Academic Excellence and Strategic Course Selection

One of the biggest myths first-gen students hear is that they can only succeed if they attend a high school with tons of AP and honors classes. But here's the truth: colleges look at what you do with the opportunities you have—and that includes going beyond the classroom.

Here's how to stand out academically:

• Take the most rigorous courses available to you.
  If your school offers honors or AP courses, enroll if you can. Challenging yourself shows initiative and drive.
• Stay consistent in your grades.
  A strong GPA—especially one that improves over time—sends a powerful message about your work ethic and growth mindset.
• Use online tools to strengthen your skills.
  Whether or not your school offers advanced classes, you can still prepare like a top student. Our AP and SAT prep gives you realistic practice questions, step-by-step explanations, and custom quizzes that fit your schedule.
• You don't need to take an AP course to take an AP exam.
  Many students don't realize this: you can self-study for AP exams—even if your school doesn't offer the course. Investing our AP Courses lets you prepare independently, impress admissions committees with your initiative, and earn real college credit. Pro tip: Don't be fooled by sticker shock - our AP courses may seem expensive at first, but when you do the math, it can actually save you thousands in college tuition. Scoring well on AP exams could help you skip introductory college courses or even graduate early.