First-Generation Bridge Program

Going to college as a first-generation student is a proud and exciting moment — but also brand new. At UNE, we offer a free First-Generation Bridge Program to help you build confidence, make connections, and get comfortable on campus before your first semester even begins.

Through mentorship, academic preparation, and community-building activities, participants ease into college life with support and tailored prep experiences alongside other first-generation students.

Register now

Why Participate in UNE’s First-Gen Program?

The First-Generation Bridge Program is designed to help students ease concerns about starting college and successfully navigate this new phase of life. Activities are geared specifically to first-generation college students, helping you:

• Make connections and new friends before classes begin.
• Build confidence before entering college.
• Get comfortable with and acclimated to campus.
• Start college feeling supported and connected.
• Participate in a first-gen Trailblazer Orientation Trip.

What’s Included?

This free program includes:

• Early move-in to campus one week before other students.
• Specialized support from faculty and staff mentors.
• Workshops on college success.
• Goal-setting activities for your first year.
• Opportunities to connect with other first-generation students.
• A Trailblazer Orientation Trip experience at no extra cost.

First-Gen Trailblazer Trips

These five-day experiences are held in August after your early move-in day. Students can choose from a variety of trips, which act as an extended Orientation and provide an unforgettable summer adventure.

Your Trailblazer experience starts with a visit to the Student Academic Success Center (SASC) on campus and an interactive goal-setting session with other first-gen students followed by one of the following trips of your choice:

• Coastal Communities: After moving in, stay on the UNE campus and take day trips to quintessential coastal communities, including Boothbay Harbor and Freeport, Maine.
• Western Maine Waters: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting at Harris Station Dam, with 12 miles of scenic river views and high-flow class 3 and 4 rapids.
• Mainely Coastal: Camp in tents next to the ocean at the L.L.Bean Paddling Center in Freeport while enjoying activities like beginner-friendly kayaking, archery, and a ropes course.

To participate in the free First-Generation Bridge Program, you must:

1. Attend a June New Student Orientation session (required for program participation).
2. Register for the program by signing up for one of our free First-Generation Bridge Trailblazer Trips through Eventbrite (no extra application required).
3. Plan to move into your residence hall on Sunday, August 23.

Important Notes

• Registration is required to participate in the First-Generation Bridge Program.
• You should not register for a separate Trailblazer Trip in June, as the August trip is included in the program. (If you are unable to participate in the included trip, you may register for a June trip at the regular fee of $125.)
• If you are not participating in the Bridge Program, you will move in with the rest of the first-year class on Sunday, August 30.

Register now

Have questions about UNE’s First-Generation Bridge Program? Please contact:

Dr. Shane Long
Assistant Dean of Students
slong11@une.edu