First Generation Frequently Asked Questions

Questions & Answers

"What do I do if I'm homesick?"

For many students, starting university means being away from home for an extended period for the first time, which can often lead to homesickness. A keyway to manage this feeling is to connect with the Emporia State community—peers, faculty, and staff. We recommend being open to meeting new people; you might find a best friend or a welcoming community that makes you feel at home. For first-year students, try to bond with those living on your dorm floor, as you will be living close to each other for several months. Engage with the First-Gen community, peer leaders, and student organizations, or participate in intramurals and other campus activities. Don’t hesitate to visit your advisor’s walk-in hours at the Advising Center or connect with staff at the Center for Student Involvement. Lastly, consider making an appointment with Counseling Services.

"What does my professor mean by meeting during the Office Hours?"

Office hours are designated times when your professors are available for one-on-one meetings. At the start of the semester, your professors will inform you of their office hours and locations. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of this opportunity. Professors are a vital resource in your college experience, and office hours are the perfect chance to get to know them better and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

"Where do I go for free help/tutoring?"

The Academic Center for Excellence and Success (ACES) offers free academic services and resources to support your college journey. These include tutoring in different subjects, the Writing Center for assistance with any writing assignment (especially beneficial for students for whom English is a second language), workshops, and more.

"How do I change a class at the beginning of the semester?"

f you attend a class and decide it may not be the one for you, please see your advisor immediately. During the first five days of the semester, you can make changes to your class schedule, and you can discuss with your advisor different class options (if available).

"How do I drop/withdrawl from a class? What's the difference between dropping a class/withdrawing a class?"

You have the first 10 days of the semester to drop a class without it appearing on your transcript. To do so, you will need to consult with your academic advisor. If you decide to withdraw from a class after this period, a "W" will be recorded on your transcript. While a "W" does not affect your GPA, it will be visible on your academic record.

"What is an Academic Advisor?"

Academic advising at ESU is an ongoing collaborative relationship between the undergraduate student and an academic advisor. The Student Advising Center provides academic advising and guidance to all undergraduate students.

"What do some of these terms mean?" Use this glossary of terms.

Glossary of Terms.pdf

"How can I apply for a scholarship?"

Each year Emporia State University awards millions of dollars in financial aid to help students pursue their education. Anyone can browse the library of scholarships available, but only current students and future Hornets who have completed the Undergraduate Application for Admission or the Graduate Application for Admission can log in to the scholarship portal.