About AFS

At Utah State University, a first-generation college student is anyone whose parents and/or guardians have NOT yet graduated with a 4-year, bachelor's degree in the U.S.

Discover The Potential Within

Founded in 2016 by a student and director who saw the potential within our first-generation students. Aggie First Scholar's mission is to provide a framework to develop and discover the potential within, while celebrating the success of our first-generation college students at USU. With the vision that every first-generation Aggie student graduates and excels beyond their four years at USU. Offering opportunities to earn college credit in scholarship and leadership, we extend a warm invitation to our Aggie First Scholars.

How do I Become Involved?

All first-generation students are recognized as Aggie First Scholars (AFS), and your level of involvement is completely up to you. All students are welcome to participate in our events and networking opportunities. If you would like to take part in the Scholar Pathway experience, please complete this survey to indicate your interest. We will follow up at the beginning of each semester to confirm your continued participation. Students who engage in the pathway are eligible for AFS scholarship consideration.

First Year Experience
In the fall, First Year students will enroll in USU 1050 (1cr.): Navigating College- Aggie First Scholars and be paired with a first-generation peer mentor. This mentor is available to answer questions about university life, help students build friendships, and support them in developing a strong campus network.

Second Year Experience
Second-year students receive opportunities for professional development, networking, and leadership. They may choose to become paid peer mentors, supporting first-year, first-generation students, or they can collaborate with the Aggie First Scholars Leadership Team to advance program initiatives such as planning socials, coordinating community partner outreach, and supporting fundraising efforts.

Third Year Experience
Third-year students are paired with a faculty mentor and meet once a month with other third-year students in the program for continued professional development.

Fourth/Fifth Year Experience
Fourth/Fifth-year students are matched with a mentor from their intended industry or post‑graduate pathway. They also meet once a month with other fourth/ fifth‑year students in the program to continue their professional development.