Our society is rooted in the American Dream of prosperity and upward mobility -- the belief that regardless of one's socio-economic background, each American is entitled to a good education and professional opportunities. First-generation college students represent the American Dream in its purest form, yet empirical evidence suggests that these students have a significant disadvantage to their peers from the moment they step on campus.
First-generation college students historically do not receive adequate professional development, career networking or job recruiting opportunities while still in college. Additionally, these students often lack the communications skills, poise and self-confidence of their peers given their comparative lack of support networks.
NYNY seeks to connect these high-potential first-generation college students with the opportunities, resources and networks that are instrumental in achieving upward mobility and personal/professional success after graduation. NYNY will help students create and pursue their aspirations through the NYNY Fellows program, giving them the confidence and information they need to succeed. Our NYNY Fellows will be a part of the next generation of American leaders and will give back to future first-generation students, creating a virtuous cycle.
