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Empower Me First is part of the Academic Initiatives unit within the Office of Academic Enhancement and strives to guide first-generation students in their transition to college and pursuit of their educational and career goals.  Empower Me First provides academic success advising, mentoring, resource referral, and programming that supports academic excellence, builds community among other first-generation students, and celebrate their successes.  Empower Me First aligns with the University’s Roadmap to Our New Century initiatives.

Welcome from our Associate Director

Greetings Trailblazers,

Micah Johnson here, Associate Director for our amazing Empower Me First (EMF) initiative. I am committed to support each of you on your journey at The U. There will be many challenges along the way and my hope is that you see the Empower Me First team as a proactive and responsive support system during your collegiate career. Whether you engage with our mentorship program, one on one academic success advising, or even hearing encouraging words to persevere, we hope you take advantage of the resources and services we offer. We acknolwedge that all First-Gen students will not entere with the same narrative, however, we encourage you to learn how to tell your story so others can learn from the trails you blaze. I look forward to partnering with you as you join the Hurricane family and celebrate every milestone along the way!

Warmest regards,

Micah D. Johnson
Associate Director, Empower Me First

Who is considered a first-generation student?

The University of Miami defines a first-generation student as a domestic student whom neither parent or guardian has graduated with a 4-year college degree.  Students who have siblings attending or who have graduated from college are still considered first-generation. 

While our priority is to support first-generation students, we will support any student who engages with us, which may include connecting them to the best resource for them.

 

Academic Success Advising

Learn about how to schedule a meeting for academic or personal support with our peer mentors and/or professional staff!

Programs & Involvement

Check out how to become engaged with Empower Me First at our events or by getting involved with First Gen Canes!

Join our Mailing List

All first-generation students should already be on our list. If you're not receiving our newsletters, please fill out this form. Faculty and staff are also able to fill this form out to receive our newsletters.

University of Miami designated as a First-Gen Forward Institution by NASPA

The University of Miami participates in NASPA's First Scholars Network and is recognized as a First-Gen Forward Institution by NASPA's Center for First-Generation Student Success acknowledging the University's commitment to first-generation student success.

naspa logo for first gen forward