1

First Generation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Student Catalysts willassistin creating and implementing engaging programming and events for first-generation college students andsupporting faculty/staff. Inadditiontopeer-to-peer support,Student ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

First Generation information

See salary details

$28.5K

$66.3K

$116K

How much do first generation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for first generation in the United States is $66,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,000.00 and $83,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a first generation?

First Generation students are individuals who are the first in their families to attend or graduate from a college or university. This typically means that neither of their parents or guardians have completed a four-year college degree. Being a First Generation student can come with unique challenges, such as navigating the college application process, financial aid, and academic expectations without parental experience to guide them. Many colleges offer dedicated resources and support programs to help First Generation students succeed academically and socially.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a first generation college student, and why are they important?

To thrive as a first-generation college student, strong academic preparation, self-motivation, and resilience are essential, often complemented by participation in preparatory programs or workshops. Familiarity with college resources such as learning management systems, academic advising, and financial aid platforms helps navigate institutional processes. Soft skills like adaptability, proactive communication, and self-advocacy are crucial for overcoming challenges and building support networks. These abilities empower first-generation students to successfully manage academic and personal demands, leading to higher retention and graduation rates.

What unique challenges might first generation college graduates face in the workplace, and how can they navigate them?

First Generation college graduates often encounter challenges such as limited professional networks, unfamiliarity with workplace norms, and the pressure of being a trailblazer in their families. To navigate these challenges, it's helpful to seek out mentorship programs, participate in employee resource groups, and proactively ask questions about company culture and expectations. Many organizations value the resilience and adaptability First Generation professionals bring, so leveraging these strengths and seeking ongoing feedback can support both personal growth and career advancement.

What is the difference between First Generation vs Medical Assistant?

AspectFirst GenerationMedical Assistant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsHigh school diploma; certification preferred (e.g., CMA, RMA)
Work EnvironmentVaries widely; includes healthcare settings, community programs, or educational institutionsClinics, hospitals, physician offices, outpatient care
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in education, healthcare, and social services to describe first-generation college or career entrantsSpecific healthcare role in medical facilities

First Generation refers to individuals who are the first in their family to attend college or enter a particular profession, often in various industries including healthcare. Medical Assistants are trained healthcare professionals working directly in medical settings. While both roles may require some certification and work in healthcare environments, First Generation is a demographic designation, whereas Medical Assistant is a specific job title. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and educational needs.

More about First Generation jobs

What cities are hiring for First Generation jobs?

Cities with the most First Generation job openings:

What states have the most First Generation jobs?

States with the most job openings for First Generation jobs include:

Infographic showing various First Generation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,269 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

STUDENT-First-Generation Office Program Assistant

Ithaca, NY • On-site


Ithaca College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

387th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Respectful managers


$16/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description


Position Summary/Overview
The First-Gen Office Programs Assistant supports the Unity Center's efforts to create meaningful experiences, opportunities, and resources for first-generation college students. This student leader will assist with program planning, outreach, event coordination, and community-building initiatives that foster belonging, connection, and student success. The First-Generation Programs Assistant helps strengthen the first-generation student community by creating opportunities for connection, celebration, learning, and support. Through this work, the assistant contributes to the Unity Center's mission of ensuring that students feel seen, empowered, connected, and successful throughout their college experience.
Position Information
Position Title: First-Generation Office Programs Assistant
Department: Unity Center
Program: First-Generation Programs
Hiring Manager: Cliff-Simon Vital
Pay Rate: $16.00 per hour (Plus standard annual increases when applicable)
Term of Employment: Full Academic Year (Fall and Spring Semesters)
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist with planning and implementing first-generation student programs, workshops, and events
  • Support signature programs and celebrations, including First-Generation College Celebration Week and other campus initiatives
  • Help facilitate educational, social, leadership, and community-building opportunities for first-generation students
  • Promote programs through marketing, outreach, and social media efforts
  • Maintain attendance records, program data, and student engagement tracking
  • Support communication with participants, campus partners, and external guests
  • Assist with event logistics, including setup, registration, hospitality, and breakdown
  • Collaborate with Unity Center staff to identify and address the needs of first-generation students
  • Attend staff meetings and contribute ideas for improving programs and services

Qualifications
  • Strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively
  • Reliable, responsible, and detail-oriented
  • Commitment to supporting student success and fostering inclusive communities
  • Interest in leadership development, community engagement, and first-generation student advocacy

Preferred Qualifications (Not Required)
  • First-generation college student experience
  • Previous involvement in student organizations, mentoring programs, or campus leadership initiatives
  • Experience with event planning, outreach, or social media marketing
  • Familiarity with Canva, Microsoft Office, or other programming and communication tools

Compensation & Benefits
  • Paid at minimum wage set by the college
  • Opportunity to develop skills in program planning, leadership, event management, marketing, and student engagement
  • Professional mentorship from Unity Center staff
  • Meaningful experience supporting the success and belonging of first-generation students

About Us
Ithaca College's student employment program offers meaningful experiential learning opportunities that develop transferable skills sought by employers across various industries. These positions allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world professional settings, fostering both personal and professional growth.
Ithaca College is committed to building a diverse academic community and encourages members of underrepresented groups to apply. Experience that contributes to the diversity of the college is appreciated.
It is advised that applicants apply attaching both a resume and cover letter. Application screening will begin immediately. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of the I-9 and employment eligibility requirements. You will need to bring your original, unexpired, authorized personal identification documents to your designated representative or The Office of Human Resources (Peggy Ryan Williams Center, Garden Level) to complete the form. More about acceptable documentation can be found here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acce... Please note that photos or copies will not be accepted.
For assistance with the application process, contact Student Employment at StudentEmployment@ithaca.edu.
For more information about student employment or specific job inquiries, visit our website or contact the hiring manager listed on the job posting.


What Ithaca College employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom