Take a look at our Program Finder to see details on each program we offer. Use the filter on the right, or click the program box and select 'View Program' for more information.
We know Cardinal First is great! But you don't have to take our word for it- we'll let your students tell their stories.
Cardinal First | First-Year Students
Mikel Mays
High School: Naperville Center High School
"Cardinal First has helped me make my first year at North Central worth it and successful; the program goes above and beyond for first-gen students. I could not imagine being where I am today without the help of Cardinal First."
Nicole Novak
High School: Andrew High School
"The Cardinal First workshops provided a lot of helpful information that I could immediately apply to my life. I would recommend all first-generation students participate in these workshops."
Mitrese Smith
High School: Kewanee High School
"The people that created Cardinal First have one mission: to ensure the success of first-gen students and make sure they stay on track."
Jake Zemba
High School: Derry Area High School
"Cardinal First gave me the opportunity to become confident in the transition from high school student to college student. Cardinal First really helped me learn how to manage my time efficiently and effectively."
Kimmy Duong
High School: Princeton High School
"Because of the mentorship from other first-generation students and faculty, my transition to college was effortless. This program taught me that I am never along in my academic journey."
Craig Dent
High School: Wheaton Warrenville South High School
"Cardinal First eliminates the fear and stress of meeting staff and faculty. You also learn so much about the College and develop smart habits that you'll take with you for the rest of your life."
Stephanie Garcia
High School: St. Charles East High School
"Being in college can be hard; networking with other students, faculty and staff is key to having a successful college experience and beyond. The Cardinal First program helps you to form important connections from day one on campus."
Cardinal First | Transfer Students
Fransico Segarra
Transferred from Waubonsee Community College
"Being the first in my family to go to college was stressful, but Cardinal First was there to help me- they provided a planner to keep me on track, time management advice and direction for other College resources."
Christina Penrod
Transferred from a four-year institution
"Cardinal First made my transition between colleges smooth. They kept me on track and pushed me to improve as a student. As a first-gen student, I am proud to be attending North Central College."
Merrick Ramza
Transferred from Elgin Community College
"Cardinal First gave me the opportunity to meet people that are going through the same experiences as I am. When you are stressed, Cardinal First gives you a space to breathe, eat a good meal and guidance on how to tackle challenges."
Vanessa Aguilar
Transferred from Harper Community College
"As a transfer student, the Cardinal First community was so welcoming and helped me feel like I belonged. They encouraged me to get involved and take advantage of all the resources available on campus."
Bashear Diab
Transferred from Triton Community College
"Cardinal First helped me feel welcomed. I was provided with countless resources. I am so happy I got to know the Cardinal First team during my time at North Central, they care for the well-being of all students!"
Erik Villanueva
Transferred from Joliet Junior College
"Cardinal First has been a great way to meet new people and make friends. The advice from the different workshops has made the college-to-real-world transition easier. It was a great social setting and helps you step out of your comfort zone."
Tony Tran
Transferred from College of Dupage
"Starting completely fresh at a new school can be daunting. Cardinal First Transition is an excellent program for students who want to increase their involvement on campus."
Sadie Jurkovic
Transferred from a four-year institution
"Cardinal First helps you realized that you are not the only first-gen student- which was something I was worried about. I never thought I would find a group of people who were in the same boat and create a family from it."
Join Cardinal First!
Embrace being a first-generation college student and join Cardinal First!