The First-Generation Gateway is the hub for first-generation initiatives at the University of Michigan. It serves as the central location for supporting all first-generation college students at the University of Michigan, facilitates programming for all first-generation college students, and assists units, schools, and colleges with the development of their own first-generation initiatives. The First-Generation Gateway works collaboratively and cooperatively with campus and external constituencies to develop initiatives that enrich the academic, social, cultural, and personal development of first-generation college students at UM. 

The values that govern the First-Generation Gateway and First-Generation initiatives, and how we approach our work with first-generation college students, focus on the following best practices:

• Asset-based Framing

  • Leveraging and focusing on the strengths and qualities of first-generation college students, highlighting their resilience, strong work ethic, cultural awareness, and unique perspectives as valuable assets to the university community

• Community and Relationship Focused

  • Prioritizing building relationships with first-generation college students and within the first-generation community 

• Access and Opportunity

  • Understanding how the unique backgrounds and lived experience of individual first-generation college students influence their access and opportunities in higher education with the aim of making higher education more accessible to first-gens and supporting their needs around resource navigation, understanding the expectations of being in college, and how to support first-gens holistically 

This position will work primarily on supporting the Program Director of First Generation Initiatives in event planning for first-generation students. Housed within OAMI, the position will also be connected to Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs (MESA), Office of New Student Programs (ONSP), and the Comprehensive Studies Program (CSP). Support initiatives include working on first-generation signature programs, supporting the first-generation student committee, and envisioning how to connect all UM’s first-generation initiatives. Details of the position responsibilities are outlined below.

Job Responsibilities

Event Planning and Coordination

There are six signature events hosted by the First-Gen Gateway for all first-generation college students every year. These events include the First-Gen Open House, First-Gen Gateway Open House, Fall Community Dinner, First-Gen Celebration Week, Winter Community Dinner, and First-Gen Graduation. This position will work closely with the Program Director to conceptualize, plan, and execute these events throughout the year. 

• Conceptualize and discuss the purpose and goals of the events (such as resource fairs, panels, mentorship mixers, and other events) and align these with the current needs and framing of the first-generation identity at Michigan

• Planning and managing each component and the logistics of the event planning process in tandem with the Assistant Director

• Executing and carrying out the tasks on the day of the event, paying close attention to detail, and the needs that may arise during the event 

• Plan and assist with the marketing strategy for the programs to first-generation students, staff, and faculty, as well as updating and developing website content

• Attend and support programs coordinated by the First Generation student organization.

Administrative Support

• Supporting and collaborating with the student org, First-Gens @ UM, the first organization of its kind in the country. This would include working with the student organization on the development of their long-term plans for the organization, planning smaller social, academic, and professional development events, and providing leadership direction to the executive board through attending the events and executive board meetings 

• Assisting and supporting the program director with the First-Generation Coordinating Council and leadership team meetings with leadership and administrators dedicated to supporting first-generation college students across the campus 

  • The program assistant will support in agenda setting, notetaking, and ideating around how to better support emerging first-gen initiatives across the U

 Leadership

• Visibility and attendance at events when necessary to market and share information about our services and programs to external and internal partners 

Marketing and Communication

• Liaise with any respective University of Michigan offices, including but not limited to: Office of New Student Programs, Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives, Comprehensive Studies Program, and Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs.

• Developing materials around supporting first-generation students for staff, faculty, and external stakeholders to address the needs of first-generation college students across campus 

This position is ideal for those who are interested in which areas of higher education:

Access/Opportunity, Programming/Advising, and Marketing and Communications.

What are work expectations?

We are looking for someone with communication skills and a motivated event planner. The person in this position is expected to take initiative and an active role in event planning throughout the year. 

A passion for supporting first-generation college students is very valuable. Usually, the intern will

work during their regularly scheduled hours, but flexibility is required for one-time events.

Opportunities to get experience in multiple competencies are available and encouraged. The

The graduate intern is expected to stay organized and maintain professionalism appropriate for the workplace. 

To Apply: Please email a cover letter and resume with relevant experience to Terra Molengraff at terrajm@umich.edu.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.