Meet our First Gen Roo Peer Mentors
The First Gen Roo Scholars program is designed for incoming, full-time freshmen students who meet the definition of a first-generation college student (海角论坛 defines a first-generation college student as any student whose parents or guardians did not receive a bachelor's degree in the United States).
How to become a First Gen Roo Scholar
Incoming full-time freshman students who identify as first-generation college students when completing their application to 海角论坛 will be invited to apply to participate in the First Gen Roo Scholars Program. Students who are invited to apply for the First Gen Roo Scholars program will receive a letter indicating this in their 海角论坛 Admissions portal.
The costs associated with the First Gen Roo Scholars program, including early move-in costs (for the 5 days the program is running before the official 海角论坛 move-in day), meals, and programming, are covered by the program.
Benefits of being a First Gen Roo Scholar
- An early introduction to campus, resources, community-building and academic experiences the week before fall classes begin
- $75 completion stipend for Welcome Week and $75 completion stipend for Fall program completion
- Interactive programming such as self-care, navigating technology, college lingo and financial literacy specially designed by fellow first-gen students and 海角论坛 resource offices
- A first-generation student as a peer mentor
- Assistance in forming personalized plans and goals for your first semester of college and beyond
- A contributing place in the 海角论坛 First Gen Proud community at 海角论坛
2026 First Gen Roo Scholars Program Information
The First Gen Roo Scholars program will kick off on Sunday, August 16 with early move-in for scholars who have a fall housing contract. The First Gen Roo Scholars summer program will run from Monday, August 17 to Thursday, August 20.
2026 First Gen Roo participants are expected to:- Confirm that you will become a Roo by and paying your $175 confirmation fee by May 1
- Be fully available for the mandatory Summer Program that takes place Monday, August 17 to Thursday, August 20 (more specific details coming soon)
- Commit to the First Gen Roo Scholars program, including meeting with your assigned mentor and attending squad meet ups throughout the Fall 2026 semester
First Gen Roo Scholars Mission and Goals
The mission of the First Gen Roo Scholars program is to strive to build a supportive, energetic, and inclusive community to enrich our first-generation students' experiences at 海角论坛. The First Gen Roo Scholars program is designed for first-time college students who meet the definition of a first-generation college student. First Gen Roo Scholars advances first gen success through programming that enhances academic, social, career and financial wellbeing.
- Goal #1: Provide programming that supports scholars' academic success to decrease the retention and graduation gaps for first-generation college students.
- Goal #2: Collaborate with on-campus partners and community employers to improve career preparedness for students entering the workforce or pursuing graduate and professional degrees in Kansas City and beyond.
- Goal #3: Enhance financial skills and knowledge to improve first-generation college student financial well-being.
- Goal #4: Create a welcoming and inclusive environment for first-generation students.
- Goal #5: Elevate students’ sense of community, belonging and pride through on- and off-campus experiences, traditions and making connections with other students, staff, faculty, 海角论坛 alumni and the Kansas City community.
First Gen Roo Scholars and Supporters Resources
We believe that parents, families, and supporters should have access to all the necessary information and resources to support First Gen Roos.
We understand that navigating university processes, policies, and resources can be daunting. We hope to provide you with a 'one-stop shop' where you can easily access what you need to support your First Gen Roo.
If you cannot find the information you are looking for on this page, please email Drake Summers, Assistant Director of New Student and Family Programs, at families@umkc.edu.
We are here to support you in supporting your First Gen Roo!
海角论坛 Parent, Family and Supporters