Vision
First in the Forest’s vision is to empower first-generation and Pell-eligible students to engage the full potential of Wake Forest University’s offerings.
Mission
First in the Forest’s mission is to build a strong foundation for first-generation and Pell-eligible students through holistic advising, developmental programming, and resource allocation. Students will strengthen their self-efficacy and cultivate the skills and networks needed to thrive in college and beyond.
Goals
- Provide programming and events that promote academic, personal, and career development.
- Advocate for first-generation and Pell-eligible student needs and empower students to reach their goals.
- Build social capital and a sense of belonging for first-generation and Pell-eligible students at Wake Forest University.
- Facilitate connections to faculty, peers, and professional staff who can provide direct support for individual student interests and goals.
- Utilize a strengths-based mentoring approach in guiding first-generation and Pell-eligible students to engage in high impact practices (internships, study abroad, service-learning, undergraduate research).
The First in the Forest Program is intended to serve as a resource for all first-generation and Federal Pell Grant eligible undergraduate students.
First-Generation Students
A student whose parent(s) or guardian(s) did not earn a bachelor’s degree from a four-year university in the United States. For more information view the Office of Undergraduate Admissions detailed definition.
Pell-Eligible Students
The Pell Grant is the largest federal grant program offered to undergraduates and it is available to undergraduate students displaying financial need. For more information, visit WFU’s Student Financial Aid Office page outlining different types of financial aid.