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Graduation and Retention Network

  • first-gen students playing Monopoly

    SIGN-UP BY AUGUST 25

    First-gen students can sign up to work with an experienced mentor! A mentor will help you with questions about college life at USC and more...

First-Gen Mentoring Program

Our First-Gen Mentoring Program is more than just connections—it's a launchpad for first-gen students to dream big, achieve boldly, and find their place at USC. Guided by faculty, staff, and peers who are living the journey, this program fosters growth, belonging, and success every step of the way!

How does working with a mentor benefit me?        

First-gen students benefit from the mentoring program by:  

  • Exploring opportunities on campus and within the community
  • Connecting with a group of First-Gen allies
  • Engaging in fun social activities
  • Joining one-on-one and group mentoring opportunities

Best of all, you'll be part of a Cocky Crew!
A Cocky Crew provides you with support through one-on-one meetings and occasional small group activities. A Cocky Crew will include one or two mentees (typically freshmen or sophomores) and one mentor. 

 

Who are the mentors?

Mentors are individuals at the University of South Carolina who are passionate about supporting first-gen students. Most mentors were at one time first-gen students themselves.  All mentors complete orientation and training.

Examples of first-gen mentors include:

  • faculty mentors
  • staff mentors
  • graduate student mentors
  • upperclass peer mentors (sophomores, juniors and seniors) 

Submit the student sign-up form by August 25

 

First-Gen student standing next to the USC First-Gen stamp logo (sign)

 

RSVP for the Kick-Off Party!

After you sign up, mark your calendar for the Fall 2025 First-Gen Mentor Program Kick-off Party on September 3, where mentors and mentees will come together to learn more about the program and see how to create a profile to navigate Mentorship Hub.

 

Have questions?
Email Melissa Kupfer at kupferm@email.sc.edu.

Interested in being a mentor?
Check out our Faculty and Staff Resources page to learn more about becoming a mentor.

 

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