Navigating FLI Resources at Barnard and Columbia

Being a first-generation, low-income student at Columbia can be challenging and feel isolating, and navigating the multiple resources the University offers can often be confusing and tedious. That being said, taking advantage of Columbia’s services can help you integrate into college and set you up for success. To simplify access to these resources, Spectrum has put together a list of school-specific support services, along with general resources to help you thrive.

Through the Undergraduate Student Life office, first-generation, low-income students can make the most out of “First-in-Family” programs. These programs include resources ranging from academic and cultural support services to professional development aid specifically for FLI students. USL also hosts multiple events throughout the academic year—both with student-run organizations and outside partners—such as the “Be the First Dinner,” which is designed to promote conversations about the FLI experience.

The FLI Partnership Library offers FLI students access to a collection of textbooks and other course materials available for semester-long loans. To use the library, FLI students must fill out an access form, look for the course material or textbook they want to check out on CLIO, and collect them at Butler Library. For additional information, check out the Columbia FLI Partnership Library webpage.

The Center for Career Education provides one-on-one career counseling on navigating professional landscapes beyond Columbia. An additional resource offered is iGrad.com, a platform that allows users easy access to financial education, loan management, and more. The Clothing Closet is also a valuable: It provides students with free and appropriate clothes for interviews, career fairs, and networking events.

FLI Network, a student-run organization, offers a community and platform for first-generation or low-income students at Columbia to explore their FLI identity. It allows students to connect with others, share their unique experiences, voice concerns, and more through events throughout the semester.

CPS has providers trained in supporting first-generation students and offers individual counseling to students, free of charge. This service is meant to help students prioritize their emotional and mental well-being. Find all other campus-wide resources at your disposal here!

The resources mentioned above for CC and SEAS are also available for students at the School of General Studies. Spectrum has also included some additional GS-specific resources.

FLI at GS is a space of community and support for students who identify as first-generation and/or low-income. The GS Dean of Students Office aims to support students through FLI community programming and academic support during their journey at Columbia. More FLI-specific events are listed in their newsletter, which you can sign up for here! GS Student Life offers free school supplies and winter wear to all GS FLI students, as well as discounted and free excursions around New York City. The office also provides meal packs and emergency meal funds for students experiencing food insecurity.

First Generation/Low Income at General Studies, also known as FL@GS, is a student group dedicated to supporting first-generation, low-income students through community building. The group organizes social and networking events, from study sessions to a billiards social hour, to foster connections within the community. The FLI Network is open to all Columbia undergraduates, providing a space to share experiences, build community, and empower FLI students.

The Academic Resource Center offers resources such as the Jumpstart Series and University Studies, designed to ease the transition to University life. The Jumpstart Series includes week-long workshops, such as “How Research Works,” where students can ask questions to solidify their foundational knowledge. University Studies, a mandatory seminar for incoming GS students, supports learning both inside and outside the classroom, helping students make the most of their undergraduate experience. Additional resources include free tutoring and coaching services for FLI GS students, as well as the ARC snack pantry, which offers snacks and beverages on the second floor of 601 W 111th St.

Similar to Columbia Psychological Services, GS Health and Wellness provides exclusive assistance to GS students. GS Health and Wellness helps bridge gaps between community healthcare providers and Columbia-specific resources.

Find out more about the School of General Studies’ resources here!

Access Barnard is the center of Barnard’s efforts to support the success and inclusion of first-generation, low-income, and international students during their time at Barnard. Part of Access Barnard’s office are the FLI Initiatives, which provide specific resources and support for underrepresented students and create a positive learning environment.

FLI Partnership Library

Students from all four undergraduate colleges who identify as first-generation and/or low-income can check out textbook resources from the Barnard and Columbia FLI Partnership Libraries. The Barnard FLI Library is located on the fourth floor of Milstein and aims to provide required books for any course. The collection is an ongoing collaboration between Columbia Libraries, Barnard Library, the Columbia FLI Network student organization, and Barnard Student Government Association.

Sponsored by the Barnard Dean of Studies Office, the Peer Academic Leader program seeks to assist first-year, FLI students in their transition to college. PALs undergo training for a year-long position and become mentors to first-year students who decide to engage in the program. Students can also opt to join the FGLI Advisory Board, where they can voice their insights, share ideas for student programming, and help create a stronger community for FLI students.

For students with demonstrated emergency needs, the Supplemental Academic Support Applications provide students with a form to request funds to support their educational needs. They support students through the Access Barnard Lending Library by providing supplemental financial grants for academic needs. It is important to note that SASA is available to all students, but they cannot address long-term financial difficulties.

Furman Counseling Center offers individual and group therapy sessions, supporting the emotional well-being of Barnard students as they navigate college life. These services are free for all Barnard students and serve as a valuable resource throughout their college journey. Additionally, the LeFrak Center provides resources to help students manage their finances and achieve financial well-being.

Students experiencing any level of food insecurity can contact the Food Pantry in Lerner Hall. This is available to registered students within any of the schools at Columbia. Access Barnard also holds a small food pantry in their lounge, Milbank Hall 111.

In addition to these resources, Access Barnard consistently offers student programming to support first-generation, low-income students throughout their time at Barnard. The FLI Community Group is open to students and meets every two weeks.

We hope this guide helps you navigate the first-generation, low-income resources offered at Barnard, Columbia, and GS. Also, remember that the student body is always a source of support during your time at college.