Embrace being a Trailblazer
A Trailblazer is a first-generation college student whose parents have yet to obtain a four-year degree from a college or university. At Concordia University Chicago about 53% of our student population are first-generation students. We take the utmost pride in empowering these students and ensuring they can receive all the resources to succeed.
Our Mission
The mission of the Trailblazer program is to serve as a tool to empower first-generation students and help them transition from high school to college. The Trailblazer program is here to provide a welcoming community for first-generation students.
We want to help students grow academically, professionally, spiritually, and socially through events, workshops, and mentorship.
The Trailblazer Mentoring Program will serve as a tool to empower first-generation students (first-gen) and help them transition from High school to college. This mentoring program will not be required but, offered to each first-gen student at Concordia University Chicago (CUC).
Through the mentoring program, first-gen students will be better equipped to utilize CUC resources to thrive academically, professionally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. They will be provided a mentor that is a first-gen upperclassman. The mentor will give guidance, advice, feedback, and support to first-year student mentees. The mentor will assist the mentee in connecting with peers, faculty, and staff to promote a sense of community. Also, the mentor will promote the resources available to the mentee and their families.
First-generation freshmen and transfers are eligible for a $1,000 scholarship. Contact the Office of Financial Aid for additional details.
Klinck Memorial Library supports first-generation students and has a dedicated space for Trailblazers to gather, mingle and study.