The First-Generation, Low-Income (FGLI) Program opened in 2016 at the Greenfield Intercultural Center (GIC), part of the Division of the Vice Provost for University Life. Since then, the FGLI Program has increased exponentially, supporting some of our brightest students’ academic, personal, and social transition needs while creating a sense of belonging and community. In fall 2018, President Gutmann announced the creation of Penn First Plus, a central home that will provided expanded programs and financial support for FGLI undergraduates at Penn.

In an effort to continue expanding our efforts and outreach, the GIC is excited to launch a new mentoring platform that will support the Penn FGLI community. Powered by startup PeopleGrove, co-founded by Adam Saven W12, this innovative platform will foster connections between first-generation and/or highly aided students and all interested alumni.
This tool allows students to search for fellow Quakers by industry or location and engage in conversation through discussion forums, flash mentorship and individual conversations. By utilizing this technology we are able to create a highly personalized networking experience.

Currently in its pilot phase, the FGLI Mentoring Community is open to select alumni who have expressed interest in supporting the FGLI community through career exploration, industry expertise, job/internship preparation and shadowing opportunities. Over the course of this soft, phased launch we will gather feedback and enhance the system.
If you are interested in learning more about the community and joining the network when it becomes public, please complete the form below. Questions can be sent to mentoring@upenn.edu.