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First-Generation Students

Office of Admission / How to Apply / First-Generation Students

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Pave the Path for Future Generations with Sum Primus

 The world is changing – increasingly diverse and interconnected. Creating an inclusive environment is not only the right thing to do, it is necessary to ensure the institution continues to fulfill its vision as the college of choice. It's mission as Maryland’s public honors college. Its core values of access and respect for self and others. First-generation students are an important part of the vibrancy that, as a whole, constitutes the best of St. Mary’s College of Maryland. We are committed to providing opportunities for all students to thrive in a rigorous yet supportive academic environment.

"Perhaps what I've realized most throughout my journey as a first-generation college student is the importance of mentors and role models. The purpose of my new initiative "I am first. I am an exemplar." is to do just that. To serve as a model, a guiding light for first-generation families to navigate through the excitement and challenges of the college experience."

- President Tuajuanda C. Jordan

First-Generation Initiative Programming

Sum Primus Summer First Program

Sum Primus Summer First Program is a one-week, intensive program at St. Mary’s College of Maryland designed to help students prepare for their first year of college. Held from August 24–28, the program offers early move-in, campus tours, and opportunities to build connections with peers and mentors.

First-generation college students will:

  • Explore campus and key resources
  • Participate in team activities, games, and group meals
  • Get tips for academic and personal success
  • Shop locally for supplies with provided transportation
  • Take field trips around Southern Maryland
  • Connect with faculty, staff, and leaders—many of whom were first-gen students themselves

Contact studentaffairs@smcm.edu for more information.

Second Semester Meet-Up

You had a successful first semester, and you can see a change in how you view the world and each individual’s role in it. This event provides an opportunity for first-generation students and parents to reconnect with President Jordan and first-generation faculty and staff.

  • Learn the steps you need to position yourself for success.
  • Plan for engagement in activities over the summer and during breaks.
  • Ensure you are prepared for life after college.

Sum Primus Living Learning Community (SPLLC)

Sum Primus Living Learning Community provides an inclusive living environment for students who identify as first-generation college students. This community is designed to stimulate academic success and performance, by providing target support and cultivating an encouraging environment community to aid in maximizing student personal development and success.

Contact the Office of Residence Life at (240) 895-4207 for more information.

New Parent Orientation

Acclimating to college life is just as important for parents as it is for students. As part of new student orientation, President Jordan hosts a special orientation event exclusively for first-generation parents.

  • Have specific questions about your student’s experience?
  • Want to be part of a community of first-generation parents, faculty, and staff?
  • Want to seek insider tips on how to navigate the ins and outs of supporting your student’s journey into adulthood?

Contact Us

Mailing Address

St. Mary’s College of Maryland
Office of Admission
47645 College Drive
St. Mary's City, MD, 20686-3001

Social Media

Hundreds of your future classmates, roommates, teammates, and friends are connecting with each other on our St. Mary’s College of Maryland ZeeMee

Annual Security & Fire Safety Report

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Act, SMCM publishes an Annual Security & Fire Safety Report. The report contains information regarding campus safety and security including crime reporting, crime prevention, college policies, drug and alcohol abuse, and sexual misconduct. The report also contains the three previous years’ crime and fire statistics for on campus locations, non-campus locations and adjacent public property.

For questions regarding information contained in the college’s annual security report or to request a hard copy please contact to Christopher Coons at ccoons@smcm.edu.