
First-Generation Resources
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Resources for being you abroad.
Being the first person in your family to go to college is an honor and we are already so proud of you for making that first step. At IES Abroad, we realize that studying or interning abroad is not just a journey and a new experience for you, but for your family as well. We know that you might not have done any of this before, so we have compiled resources on studying abroad to help prepare you and support you along the way. If you need additional resources outside of those that are linked below, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected].
Browse a collection of IES Abroad and other website's resources specific to the first-generation experience.
Student Voices: Interning Abroad as a First-Generation Student
IES Abroad Senior Diversity Relations Manager, Hernando Sevilla-Garcia interviewed IES Abroad alum Christian Canizal about his experience interning abroad as a first-generation college student.
World of Difference Alumni Profile - Kiah Zellner-Smith
In celebrating 10 years of the Initiative to Diversify Education Abroad (IDEA), IES Abroad alum Kiah Zellner-Smith shares her experience studying abroad in Rio de Janeiro and identifying as a bi-racial, cis-gender black woman who was a first-generation college student and the first in her family to study abroad.

IES Abroad Blogs - First-Generation
Hear from IES Abroad Correspondents about how their first-generation identity intersects with their study and internship abroad experiences.

General Resources
- Ask a First-Generation Student: Diversity and Study Abroad
Know Without Borders
- I Swear You Can Study Abroad: First-Generation Students [VIDEO]
DePaul University Study Abroad, YouTube

Packing & Air Travel Tips
- Study Abroad Packing List
IES Abroad
- Air Travel Tips for Trans & Non-Binary Students
IES Abroad
- International Travel Tips for First-Time Travelers
GoOverseas.com
- How to Avoid Over-packing and Actually Sleep on a Long Flight, According to a Travel Expert
Travel & Leisure
- 25 International Air Travel Tips That Work
GoAbroad.com
I know my parents are supportive, I just know they would have never dreamed of this. Their dreams are a little different and I know they are living through me, but coming here just motivates me, even more, to give them the world.
At IES Abroad, we're here to help. If you have any questions about your identity abroad, please contact our Diversity Relations Department by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800.995.2300. Know of another resource we should add? Let us know!
