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First-Generation Student

As a First-Generation college student, WVNCC recognizes and applauds your accomplishments to get to this point; however, we also know that you may face some challenges. College is no easy task to navigate alone. WVNCC staff and faculty understands that learning new college processes, terms and more can be overwhelming. You will never be alone to navigate this new chapter in your life. WVNCC will help every step of the way to make your college experience a success.

What is a First-Gen Student?

Generally, a first-generation college student is the first person in the family to attend (and graduate) from college. Trying to embark on a college career without the advice and guidance from parents who have not had the experience, can be challenging. Sometimes parents have attended college, but never graduated, and maybe it has been years since they were admitted to college and so much has changed. Many staff and faculty at WVNCC were first-generation students ourselves, so we understand. You are not alone.

Terminology

WVNCC has compiled a list of common terms and definitions to help you along the way. Please feel free to print this out and keep on you when you are on campus.

Terminology Resource

Resources

WVNCC has plenty of available resources on campus that will help you succeed not just in the classroom but in life. Our number one priority is to see you succeed, so please ask us questions, or tell us how we can best help you. As we said, you will never be alone in this new chapter so we have put together resources that you can use to make your life easier plus help you succeed.

Please note: You can find everything you need all in one place on the Current Students page. This page has all the links you will need from the time you apply until you graduate.

In the meantime, here is a breakdown of resources to help you on your way!

Academic Resources

  • Admissions: Our Admissions Operations Coordinator will be with you every step of the way from when you start to apply to when you finish. If you have any questions, you can email Admissions directly at wvnccadmissions@wvncc.edu.
  • Action Center: Our Action Center is responsible for providing accurate information and support regarding academic advising, career exploration, and transfer planning. If you have any questions, you can email advising@wvncc.edu and one of our fabulous campus counselors will assist you.
  • Registrar’s Office: The Registrar’s office will assist you enrollment verifications, applying for graduation, and more when it comes to your enrollment and records. If you have any questions, you can email registrar@wvncc.edu.
  • Student Services: Our Student Care specialists will help you with forms, registration questions, adding/dropping classes, change of information, parking passes, student ID cards and so much more.
  • Check your Email: Your email is your link for everythign you need while at WVNCC. From your Student Weekly Update to other important academic information, make sure to keep up with your inbox. It will help you stay on top of school work, account notifications, events, and more.

Bookstore Resources

  • WVNCC Online Bookstore: WVNCC has transitioned into an online bookstore, Akademos, to provide you with affordable course materials. If you need help, contact WVNCC.TextbookX.com/Help for assistance.

Financial Aid Resources

Mental Health Resources

  • Well Connect: We've got your back. A free benefit from Northern, WellConnect can help you or anyone in your household balance school, home, and life, receive emotional support, get help with responsibleness, improve daily life and so much more. Use our login code - WVNCC-STU to start your sessions today.
  • Mental Wellness Apps: Use the list of Mental Wellness apps to relieve your emotions and improve your overall health.
  • Mental Health Committee: If you need to speak with one our staff or faculty about any issues use this webpage to speak to a member on the committee.  

Safety Resources

  • Security & Safety: If you feel that you are in danger and need immediate help, dial 911. Otherwise, use this webpage to see the links that will help you stay safe on campus.

Student Life Resources

  • Student Activities: The Mission of Student Activities at West Virginia Northern is to create student learning, and development opportunities through social, academic, cultural, and civic engagement on and off campus.
  • Calendar of Events: Use this webpage plus the WVNCC GO App to keep up with all the exciting activities and opportunities that WVNCC offers you. All for FREE.
  • Student Government Association: The West Virginia Northern Community College Student Government Association provides unique opportunities for students to build relationships, enhance leadership skills, become civically engaged, and maximize their college experiences. You have concerns or questions, email sga@wvncc.edu.
  • Student Clubs and Organizations: Join one of our clubs to meet new friends and create invaluable memories. Our newest club is E-Sports!
  • Student Spaces: Need a place to go in between classes? Click here to discover where you can relax, eat, or study in between classes.
  • Stay Connected! Follow us on our social media! Get the scoop on everything Northern.

Student Support Services

  • Academic Resource Center: All three West Virginia Northern Community College campuses provide student support through the Academic Resource Center which consists of academic support services and the library.

    The centers located on each campus are staffed by professionals and paraprofessionals who provide academic and personal skill development opportunities. The centers provide students with the following:
    • individual and interactive academic spaces
    • programs that enhance academic success
    • research assistance
    • guidance in using their student portal and D2L system
    • tutoring support, including an online tutoring option
    • ADA accommodation support and services
    • mentor students through the FYS class, intended to connect students to the college community
    • provide counseling and mental health referrals
    • offer individualized placement testing, including test practice
    • professionals who provide individualized support to students.
  • Accessibility Services

    Accommodations for students with disabilities can be arranged through the Academic Resource Center by completing the Voluntary Disability Disclosure form. You will be contact by our office to set up an appointment. Learn more and complete the Voluntary Disability Disclosure Form.

Informational Technology

  • The IT Department: Having issues with your student portal? Need help with your email?  Have any other technology questions? Contact the IT department.

    Portal Help  IT Chat - Live Help 24/7
  • Need to utilize a laptop or tablet? Contact us at IT@wvncc.edu or stop into Room 426 / B&O Building, Wheeling Campus to arrange a pickup.

A few tips….

  1. Seek support resources early in your college career.
  2. Embrace this new chapter.
  3. Meet with Financial aid and your Academic Advisor each semester.
  4. Get Involved!!!
  5. Build a support team around you.
  6. Be you! Never doubt yourself.

Join our First-Gen Fridays!

Each month, we encourage all first-generation students plus current students to attend a meeting that has a different topic each month depending on the month. These conversations are informal and are providing to give you the knowledge or insight needed to succeed. Plus, if you join us, you will receive a t-shirt and be eligible for a prize drawing. Get all the details on the event calendar or WVNCC GO app.

Remember, you are never alone in this journey. We want you to succeed and will be there every step of the way!

Past Events

If you have any questions, you can contact the First-Generation Co-Chairs:

Regan Blaha
Director of Student Engagement
304-214-8917 | rblaha@wvncc.edu

or

Lisa Soly
Director of Action Center
304-214-8817| lsoly@wvncc.edu

Non-Discrimination Statement

West Virginia Northern Community College (WVNCC) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution and does not discriminate based on race, sex (e.g., sex, sex stereotypes, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and pregnancy or parenting status), disability, religion, color, national origin, or age in admission, employment, educational programs, or activities; nor does it discriminate based on genetic information in employment or employee health benefits. Further, faculty, staff, students, and applicants are protected from retaliation for making complaints or assisting in investigations of discrimination. WVNCC will take steps to assure that a lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in the college’s CTE offerings. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Full Non-discrimination notice and associated policies, procedures and forms.

 


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