The Center for Career and Professional Development is committed to supporting students from all different backgrounds. We recognize that first-generation students may face additional barriers throughout their professional development journey, so our goal is to provide supplemental guidance and resources to assist these students.

On this page, you will find information, resources, events, and programs that address the unique career needs of first-generation students.

Campus Resources

Tigers on Track is a cohort-based internship preparation program for first-generation and Pell/Federal Work-Study-eligible undergraduate students at Clemson. The program is designed to equip students with the knowledge they need to secure and succeed in an internship. Students who participate in this program will get insight into the hidden curriculum that surrounds internships and hands-on support throughout every step of the internship process. 

For questions, please email Lia Fiore at lfiore@clemson.edu.

College is an experience characterized by change and challenges. A strong support system can make a difference in whether or not a student excels. The FIRST Program helps ensure success for students who are the first in their family to attend college. First-generation college students are individuals whose parents do not hold a degree from a four-year college or university. Clemson is proud of its first generation students and is committed to their success.

FIRST helps these students adjust to the college experience by offering a variety of opportunities and resources, from academic support to social activities. New freshman and transfer students are invited to apply and use the resources and opportunities FIRST provides. FIRST participation continues throughout a student’s time at Clemson.

Email the FIRST Generation Success Program at first@clemson.edu.

We want to develop a shared sense of belonging that ensures that Clemson is a true home for those graduate students and faculty who are the higher education pioneers of their families.

Email Dr. Jenny Presgraves at betsyp@clemson.edu with any questions.

College Success & Career Exploration – External Resources

I’m First! was created in 2013 to provide students who lack a family history of higher education with inspiration, information, and support on the road to and through college. I’m First! is an initiative of UStrive—a national nonprofit that also runs an online college and career mentoring program by the same name.

A committed team of first-generation students and professionals working…to develop a comprehensive online platform that empowers first-generation, low-income (FGLI) students and professionals.

An award-winning podcast and the first and #1 show in the world for first-generation scholars and professionals.

This resource is a directory of 500+ employers with dedicated diversity hiring programs consolidated by Gorick Ng, a first-gen college grad, author, and career advisor who is on a mission to level the playing field for talent from underrepresented backgrounds.

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Career Resources

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Contact & Location

Phone
(864) 656-6000
Address

Third Floor, Hendrix Student Center
720 McMillan Road
Clemson, SC 29634

Career Service Hours

Monday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Tuesday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Wednesday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Thursday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm