Books

First in the Family: Advice About College from First-Generation Students—Vol. I: Your High School Years

by Kathleen Cushman (Next Generation Press, 2005). 84 pages.

“If we can do it, so can you!” That’s the message sent to students in this advice book, written with college students who were the first in their families to go past high school. It’s tough to aim for college if other family members have not—so this book offers the kind of encouraging, practical guidance that an older sibling would give. Inspiring stories of the diverse student contributors—who end up at institutions from community colleges to elite universities—combine with warm and well-organized counsel and checklists. This first volume is geared towards students in grades 8 - 12.

NOTE: This volume is now out-of-print. But we have produced a FREE, UPDATED E-BOOK VERSION that includes videos and multimedia linked to First in the Family—Your High School Years. To view on any web browser, click here.

First in the Family: Advice About College from First-Generation Students—Vol. II: Your College Years

by Kathleen Cushman (Next Generation Press, 2006). 128 pages.

In Vol. II of First in the Family, sixteen first-generation students, in their last years of college, speak powerfully about the challenges facing those who arrive at college with only hope and courage as their legacy. They tell of the culture shock of arrival at college, then remind students what strengths have brought them this far. They give blunt counsel on keeping up with academics in the face of discouragement. They emphasize the know-how that passes down through generations of college-educated families: building relationships with professors, choosing courses that can open new doors, managing time.

NOTE: We currently are taking only bulk orders (minimum of 50 copies) for this title. But we have produced a free, updated e-book version that includes videos and multimedia linked to First in the Family—Your College Years. For bulk orders, please contact bcervone@nextgenerationpress. To view the free e-book in any web browser, click here.