What is the First-Generation Academy?
The First-Generation Academy is a FREE one-credit online course designed specifically for first-year students who will be among the first in their families to attend college. This course provides some of tools, knowledge, and support needed to confidently begin navigating your first year at Salem State.
First-Generation
A first-generation student is defined as neither parent/guardian having received a bachelor’s degree (four year college/university) in the United States.
Course Details
Incoming first-year students who have made their deposit (or had their deposit waived) will be able to register for the course beginning May 1 through a special link sent to eligible student's Salem State account. The course meets once a week online from the end of July through the beginning of September. As on online synchronous course, students will be expected to attend the virtual class each week from Monday July 20 - Monday September 14.
The course ends with an in-person required attendance/celebration at the annual Student Organization Fair from 11:30am - 12:30pm on Monday September 14, 2026.
Benefits
Students who complete the First-Generation Academy (attending sessions, completing assignments) will receive 1-credit on their transcript towards graduation (to be posted in late September.)