As a first-generation/low-income (FGLI) student, you bring hard work, resilience, and unique lived experiences as well as the intellectual curiosity and dedication that will help you excel here at Yale. During this time, you might face unique challenges in navigating the expectations and resources. Adjusting to college life can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone.
Understanding the “Hidden Curriculum”
Every university has its own culture and “hidden curriculum”— unspoken rules and norms that can be difficult to figure out on your own. Some aspects of the “hidden curriculum” are embedded in the following questions that many FGLI students engage with:
- What are office hours? Why should I go to them? What should I talk about?
- What is the difference between high school math homework and college-level problem sets? Why do I need to meet with other students and faculty to complete them?
- What’s a residential college dean? What’s a FroCo? What is a college advisor? Who should I go to for what advice?
- How do I balance paid work and my studies?
- When and how should I plan for summer study abroad and internships?
The Office of Educational Opportunity (OEO) will help you answer these questions and support you at Yale. Our goal is to guide you through resources and opportunities to empower you to make the most of your Yale experience.
FGLI Thrive: Workshops & Events
FGLI Thrive Events consist of experiences designed to help students take advantage of resources on campus. Workshops cover a range on topics such as leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, networking for careers, and more.
The program is managed by Josh Faires, Assistant Director for FGLI Student Success.
FGLI Thrive: Peer Mentorship
FGLI Thrive places first-year and sophomore FGLI students in small peer mentorship groups led by a junior or senior FGLI mentor. FGLI mentors share their experiences and help you develop strategies to achieve your goals at Yale. Peer mentorship groups meet regularly throughout the academic school year.
FGLI Thrive peer mentorship groups serve as a safe space for students to talk about their lived experiences, make friends, and get support while receiving information about the resources and opportunities at Yale.
OEO: Workshops & Consultations
OEO workshsops and 1-1 consultations are FGLI friendly. The majority of OEO mentors identify as FGLI and represent the full diversity of the undergraduate population. Workshops aim to demystify Yale’s “hidden curriculum” and help students navigate resources and opportunities on campus. Our workshops cover everything from talking with faculty to planning for study abroad and pre-professional opportunities.
Upcoming Events
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STEM Navigators Sunday Study Hall
Snacks? While studying and meeting peers? Come complete your p-sets, study, and meet your peers in your STEM courses. Snacks and peer mentors are here to help you with any questions about majors, summer opportunities, or classes to take in the future! Mentors will also serve as accountability buddies to make sure you stay on track during the study hall and achieve your academic goals! NOTE: Tu… -
Optimize Your Reading
Not all reading strategies are created equal. This workshop introduces flexible, evidence-based techniques for reading more effectively across disciplines - whether you’re prepping for class, writing a paper, or studying for exams. Learn how to approach texts with purpose, not just persistence. -
Senior Thesis Power Hours
Writing a Senior Thesis is HARD—but it’s way more fun with snacks, support, and friends who get it! Drop in anytime to this two-hour session, hosted by the Yale College Writing Partners and Academic Strategies Peer Mentors, for: 1. Facilitated & structured focus time + breaks 2. Delicious snacks + seltzer water 3. 1:1 help from Writing Partners and Academic Strategies Peer Mentors (option… -
Eli Whitney Caffeinated Commons
Wrap up your week with community, conversation, and caffeine! Drop by this relaxed weekly hangout hosted by the Academic Strategies Program’s Eli Whitney peer mentors—sometimes there’s a theme or discussion, sometimes just snacks and good company. Whether you’re here to chat, decompress, connect, or set up your weekend, you’re always welcome. Tuesdays, 4pm-6pm coffee provided. -
How to Study for Exams
Studying for exams doesn’t have to mean endless stress and last-minute cramming. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to prepare strategically for different exam types—problem-based, short answer, and essay—while building habits that reduce anxiety and boost confidence. Academic Strategies Peer Mentors share what’s worked for them and help you create a plan you can actually stick to. -
STEM Navigators: Starting Your STEM Resume & Cover Letter
How do I prepare my resume as a STEM student? You’re in luck, because STEM Navigators is running this workshop to teach you exactly how you can start and perfect your resume in its beginning stages, which is important for future job searches - or for future employers to recruit YOU! Join STEM Navigators for this workshop that will give you tips on creating a strong resume. -
Optimize Your Reading
Not all reading strategies are created equal. This workshop introduces flexible, evidence-based techniques for reading more effectively across disciplines - whether you’re prepping for class, writing a paper, or studying for exams. Learn how to approach texts with purpose, not just persistence. -
ADHD Discussion Group
Connect with fellow Yalies who have ADHD to share study tips, time management strategies, and support each other through the unique challenges of college life. Discover resources and build a community that understands your experience. -
How to Lock In : Working Through Procrastination
We all procrastinate—but when it gets in the way of your goals, it’s time for a shift. In this workshop, we’ll explore what’s really driving your procrastination and share strategies to help you break out of the cycle. You’ll leave with tools to reset your habits and move forward—one doable step at a time. -
Chronic Illness Discussion Group
A supportive environment to share experiences and discuss the impact of chronic illness on daily life while at Yale. -
Office of Educational Opportunity Drop-in Hours
Join us for our in-person drop-in hours where OEO mentors are available to answer questions and provide guidance on a range of topics, including: • Getting organized for your classes and making a weekly schedule • Planning ahead for job and internship applications • Thinking through summer opportunities and next steps • How to get started on work/Executive Function • Managing your time •… -
Test Anxiety ➡️: Prepping for Success
If nerves tend to take over when exams approach, this workshop is for you. Together, we’ll unpack what test anxiety looks like, why it happens, and how to manage it before and during exams. You’ll leave with practical strategies for preparation, mindset shifts, and in-the-moment tools—supported by Academic Strategies Peer Mentors who know firsthand how transformative these skills can be. -
STEM Navigators: Exploring STEM Careers Panel + Reception
Join STEM Navigators for our Exploring STEM Careers Panel! We’ll have a panel of Yale alumni in various STEM fields who will talk about their journeys to their careers and will answer any questions that you have! This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with alumni and learn about the various career paths you can take with your STEM degree! Pastries will be provided -
STEM Navigators Sunday Study Hall
Snacks? While studying and meeting peers? Come complete your p-sets, study, and meet your peers in your STEM courses. Snacks and peer mentors are here to help you with any questions about majors, summer opportunities, or classes to take in the future! Mentors will also serve as accountability buddies to make sure you stay on track during the study hall and achieve your academic goals! NOTE: Tu…
We’re here to help!
Reach out to the Poorvu Center team if you have any questions or to learn more about our programs.