Empower Me First

image of empower me first banner image banner for Empower Me First
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

Hello First Gen Family,

 My name is Jonathan Cola, I am the Assistant Director of the Empower Me First (EMF) initiative. EMF is a proactive and responsive support system specifically for first-generation students. I hope you recognize that EMF is here to support you throughout your collegiate career and beyond!

College is a difficult journey, but being first gen only adds to the difficulty. As you navigate your journey, I encourage you to engage with our office and take full advantage of the resources we offer-whether that means participating in our mentorship program or meeting one-on-one for advising. I am committed to support each and every one of you on your journey here at the U. In fact, it is my dream to help you reach yours.

I look forward to working with you and celebrating your wins!

Sincerely,

Jonathan P. Cola

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.

 

Featured Links

Learn about how to schedule a meeting for academic or personal support with our peer mentors and/or professional staff!
Check out how to become engaged with Empower Me First at our events or by getting involved with First Gen Canes!

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

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