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First to Fly First-Generation Support Program

Mission

The purpose of the First to Fly (FTF) Program is to help first-generation students successfully navigate higher education. The FTF program provides students with a community that offers academic, social-emotional and career readiness support.

Eligibility and Application

Any student attending Ï㽶ÊÓƵ¹ÙÍø who identifies as a first-generation student is eligible. As defined by FPU, your parent/guardian has not received a four-year bachelor's degree. If you would like to apply to be part of the First to Fly community and receive regular communication about support services and program events, please complete this short application.

Program Benefits

  • Academic Support (Tutoring and Coaching)
  • Program events and activities
  • Career Counseling
  • Peer Mentoring
  • Counseling Services
  • Laptops available for check-out

Support Team

Program Staff

Cyinna Drotos Photo

Cyinna Drotos, M.A.

Director of the Intercultural Learning Center
  • 559-453-2074
  • cyinna.drotos@fresno.edu
Photo of Madeleine Saephan

Maddie Saephan, M.A.

Career Counselor
Main Campus Students
  • 559-453-7157
  • madeleine.saephan@fresno.edu
Photo of Aubree Wright

Aubree Wright

Career Counselor
Regional Campus and Online Students/Alumni
  • 559-453-7161
  • aubree.wright@fresno.edu

Peer Mentors

  • Sunny Guides:
    • Jocelyn Cortez
    • Daniella Lazaro Aleman
    • Avril Mendoza Pizano

First Gen Staff and Faculty

First Gen Faculty

  • Ken Cheung (Chemistry)
  • Mariah Cushing (Biblical Studies)
  • Sharon Starcher (Business)
  • Shalon Anderson (Business)
  • Daniel Larson (English)
  • Victor Hugo Manriquez (Kinesiology)

First Gen Staff

  • Anita Rodriguez (GPS)
  • Brian Davis (OSF)
  • Cyinna Drotos (ILC)
  • Jodi Smith (Admissions)
  • Sarah Micu (ASC)
  • Evelin Barreto-Bess (ASC)
  • Zaira De La Cruz (SFS)
  • Francisca Lara (SFS)
  • Chelsea Weber (SAS)

Events and Resources

Resources