Supporting First-Generation College Students: A UConn Student's Efforts

Stanley Lu '26, a senior majoring in management, understands the unique challenges faced by first-generation college students. Lu, who is spending his senior year as the DEI Intern for the First-Generation Students Affinity Community at UConn's Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills, is dedicated to promoting accessible, high-impact career-building experiences for students. He is particularly enthusiastic about "micro-internships," which provide students with short-term work experience in various fields, often with a focus on building resumes and gaining hands-on experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Stanley Lu, a senior majoring in management, is working as the DEI Intern for the First-Generation Students Affinity Community at UConn's Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills.
• Lu is dedicated to promoting accessible, high-impact career-building experiences for first-generation college students, particularly through "micro-internships."
• Micro-internships provide students with short-term work experience in various fields, often with a focus on building resumes and gaining hands-on experience.
• Lu is researching creative solutions other universities have developed to help support first-generation students, such as the University of Oklahoma's glossary of terms related to campus life, financial aid, and professional development.
• Lu is developing a similar document tailored to the UConn community, aimed at supporting first-generation students and accessible to all.
• Lu's involvement with the Career Center began when he attended various info sessions and had his resume and cover letter workshopped by professional staff, ultimately leading to his acceptance to the School of Business.
• Lu is exploring roles in human resources or career counseling, building on his experience at the Career Center, and is passionate about supporting people in developing their skills and preventing burnout.

Statistics:

• Stanley Lu '26 is a senior majoring in management at the University of Connecticut.
• Lu is the DEI Intern for the First-Generation Students Affinity Community at UConn's Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills.
• The University of Connecticut has a First-Generation Students Affinity Community, which provides resources and support for first-generation students.
• October is the Month of Discovery at the University of Connecticut, when undergraduates are introduced to the wealth of research and innovation opportunities at UConn.

Sources:

• University of Connecticut.
• Stanley Lu, personal interview.
• October Month of Discovery at the University of Connecticut