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First Generation

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First Generation Students

Being a first generation student is an extraordinary accomplishment—and it can also come with unique questions, responsibilities, and pressures.

 

First-generation students often navigate unfamiliar academic systems, financial processes, and professional expectations while serving as role models within their families and communities.

Our Office of Student Affairs is committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment where first-generation students can access mentorship, advising, community connections, and practical resources to thrive throughout every phase of medical training. OSA encouraged you to reach out to your OSA Advisors and trusted faculty mentors with any questions.

 

UMSOM | Office of Student Affairs Team

Tonya Webb, PhD | Assistant Dean for Student Engagement and Student Life for Student Affairs
TWebb@som.umaryland.edu

Dr. Webb leads strategic efforts to foster a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive environment for medical students. Dr. Webb develops and implements programs that enhance student engagement across the continuum—from recruitment and retention to curriculum development and campus culture. She collaborates closely with educational leadership to strengthen the School’s commitment to student support, providing oversight to student-led groups and ensuring representation in co-curricular activities. 

UMSOM | Financial Services Team

RESOURCES

 

You May Be Wondering...

  • How is medical school different from college—and how do I succeed here?

  • How do loans, budgeting, and financial planning work in medical training?

  • When and how do I choose a specialty or prepare for residency?

  • How do I find mentors and build professional networks?

  • Is it normal to feel unsure or out of place at times?

  • How do I balance family expectations with the demands of medical school?

If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone. Our Office of Student Affairs is here to provide guidance, mentorship, and practical resources to help you navigate each step with confidence.

SOM

Family Connection and Engagement

Academic Support

Learning Environment

Personal/Wellbeing

Campus

Academic/Wellbeing

Places/People on Campus

In the News

External

Articles

Multi-Media

Society

* Resources will be updated as often as appropriate. These resources are provided for informational purposes only. Inclusion does not imply endorsement, and we cannot assume responsibility for the content of external materials. 

 

 

Office of Student Affairs
University of Maryland School of Medicine
685 W. Baltimore Street, Suite 150
Baltimore, MD 21201
410-706-7476
studentaffairs@som.umaryland.edu