The First Generation Network - previously known as Widening Participation association - is a student network to support those who are the first in their families to go to university.

Studies have shown that students from a first generation background find the transition to higher education and beyond more taxing and challenging, and the network seeks to help tackle the boundaries and barriers that some of these students face. I don’t want to bore you with a lengthy article, so I’ll just go ahead and summarise exactly why you should join our (currently small) family!

 ? You get the comfort and reassurance of knowing that you are not alone. There are people in the same boat as you who can help you through any problems and celebrate your achievements with you.

 ? We hold fortnightly meetings: a safe space to share experiences as First Generation students so you don’t have to wait until the end of term to address any issues.

 ? We have intellectual discussions about first generation experiences and generally bounce ideas off of each other when discussing potential practical solutions.

 ? The network is still quite new so you will be able to help shape what the network could mean to you and how it helps first generation students. This is an amazing opportunity to be a part of it; in both its formation and its future endeavours.  

 ? We will work together with the college to ensure that King’s understands and acknowledges these often forgotten experiences and be the leading active participants in tangible projects enacting change.  

If you feel passionate about our aims as a network and can see yourself working alongside us, or merely want to learn more, please find and like our official Facebook page: KCLSU First Generation Network.

Our next meeting is coming up very soon so if we’ve met and you know me, feel free to poke me if you see me wondering around a corridor. If we haven’t personally met, then say hi anyway or message the Facebook page.

We look forward to working with you all soon!