Navigating the First Generation Student Journey at USC

As a first-generation college student pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at the USC Sol Price School of Public Policy, you’re part of a growing community reshaping leadership in public service. With 22.5% of USC’s 2024 Class identifying as first-gen, the university has built robust support systems to help students overcome their unique challenges, access resources, and excel academically and professionally. 

What is a first generation college student?

A first-generation college student is typically defined as someone whose parents did not earn a four-year degree. At USC, this identity is celebrated through initiatives like the First Generation Plus Success Center (FG+SC), which provides mentorship, community-building programs, and tailored resources for navigating campus life. For MPA students, this support extends into graduate school through cohort coaching, career services, and scholarships.

First-generation students often encounter unique hurdles in their academic journey. Without family experience in higher education, understanding graduate-level expectations—like financing your education, combatting imposter syndrome, and working while getting your degree—can feel daunting. 

Financial aid and scholarships

Graduate education is a valuable investment in your future and each student’s financial situation is unique. Understanding what to anticipate in terms of costs and what funds you can access to help cover those costs is a great start in developing a plan to maximize return on your investment.

There are numerous funding options available at USC Price:

• The Dean’s Merit Scholarship rewards academic excellence. It is a partial tuition-only scholarship based on a holistic evaluation of candidates’ academic achievements, research interests, impact in their field, and alignment with the Price School’s mission. 
• The Professional Scholarship is designed for applicants with 3+ years of experience in public, private, or nonprofit sectors. Students with several years’ work experience, as well as those early in their careers whose contributions may have been through volunteer work, are encouraged to apply. Selection will be based on students’ professional contributions to our field and their plans to build on those experiences after they graduate.
• Additionally, FAFSA applicants often qualify for grants and low-interest loans. Applicants are encouraged to review the scholarship and financial aid resources available through USC Price, USC, and partner networks. 

How to combat imposter syndrome

First-gen students might experience imposter syndrome, a feeling of self-doubt that can be common when applying to top-ranked graduate programs.

Success stories from MPA Online alums like Paola Najera, a first-gen MPA graduate, show what’s possible. Paola pursued her MPA because of her passion for public service and sustainability. She “want[ed] to be part of that 7 to 8% of Latinos who held a graduate degree.”

Najera’s experience in the program was transformative. As she balanced work, personal life, and studies, she managed to land a role in Global Communications at Visa. Najera shared, “My career changed drastically during the program. I attribute that to the knowledge and skills I gained through the MPA program. Being part of the Trojan Nation is the culmination of a lifelong dream.”

How to balance school and work

The MPA online program is designed for working professionals. Most of our students, including first-generation students, often face the additional challenge of balancing family and professional commitments while pursuing their degree. This is where USC Price’s Online MPA program proves invaluable. The online format offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing students to access coursework at times that fit their busy schedules. Evening online classes enable students to maintain their current positions while advancing their education and building connections with their classmates and professors. 

“The online modality offered me the flexibility to really balance my professional and personal life while engaging in my academic pursuit. The virtual classrooms really facilitate meaningful engagements and interactions with your professors and also with classmates.” 

Resources for first generation students 

USC prioritizes inclusivity through key programs designed to support first-gen students. The First Generation Plus Success Center (FG+SC), offers workshops on time management and financial literacy, peer mentorship, connections to faculty and staff allies, and a dedicated space for studying and community events. 

Mentorship for an Accessible Price (MAP) is a graduate student organization that pairs first-gen MPA candidates with mentors who provide application guidance, networking tips, and advocacy within the Price School. Some of the various activities included in the program are scholarship panels, diversity panels, around the MAP, first-gen student panel, and first-gen student guide. 

Once enrolled in the MPA online, students are assigned a Cohort Coach, their “go-to” person throughout the program. These mentors have assisted with job interview preparation, salary negotiations for new jobs, and dozens of introductions to the Trojan Family and our network of professional job leads.

The Price Office of Career Services bridges classroom learning to real-world opportunities through events like Networking Nights, where students connect with alumni in public administration. The USC Career Center also provides internship funding opportunities, such as the First-Generation Internship Award, and hosts Resume Labs, offering tailored feedback for government and nonprofit roles.

The Trojan Family is USC’s extensive network of students and alumn,i offering mentorship, career development assistance, and guidance. Through shared experiences, values, and a commitment to public service, this tight-knit community helps first-generation students thrive and make a positive impact in their fields.

Building Community as a First-Generation College Student

The MPA online program fosters a sense of belonging through live virtual classes and in-person residencies, creating a flexible yet immersive learning environment. The two in-person campus residencies strike a balance between the convenience of online learning and the benefits of face-to-face interaction. The in-person residencies offer first generation students a unique opportunity to learn directly from experienced faculty, participate in skill-building workshops tailored to public service, and forge lasting connections with classmates and industry professionals. These experiences help students translate classroom knowledge into practical skills and expand their network for future career advancement.

The First Generation Student Assembly (FGSA) advocates for first gen needs campus-wide, ensuring that these unique perspectives are represented. Success stories like that of Ally Sanchez, a first-gen BRED graduate, who leveraged Price’s career services to land a role at The Irvine Company, demonstrate the power of community support and resources. Although the pressure of balancing a demanding workload with the search for a fulfilling career tested her, Sanchez credits her supportive USC Price community with fostering an environment where she could thrive.

Why USC Price stands out

USC Price’s MPA online program distinguishes itself through its flexibility, hands-on learning opportunities, and extensive alumni network. The MPA online allows students to earn a degree in 24 months while working full-time, making it an ideal option for those balancing multiple responsibilities. Through capstone projects, students have the opportunity to partner with local governments, nonprofits, and the private sector to gain real-world experience in solving complex issues. Upon graduation, students join a network of over 14,000 Price alumni leading in sectors such as public administration, urban planning, public policy, and healthcare.

USC Price’s MPA program isn’t just about earning a degree. With tailored resources, financial support, and a community that celebrates your unique perspective, you’re poised to make an impact far beyond the classroom. 

Learn more about the Master of Public Administration Online.