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 Fresno Pacific University 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, M.A.
Assistant Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion- 559-453-2074
- cyinna.drotos@fresno.edu
Brianna Martinez
Student Success and Equity Specialist- 559-453-2375
- Brianna.Martinez@fresno.edu
Madeleine Saephan, M.A.
Traditional Undergrad Career Counselor- 559-453-7157
- madeleine.saephan@fresno.edu
Aubree Wright
Career Counselor- 559-453-7161
- Aubree.Wright@fresno.edu
Peer Mentors
- Mariana Bautista Almazan
- Yesenia Cortez
- Paola Espinoza
- Lucero Garcia-Lopez
- Ramon Martinez
- Andrea Pineda
- Maddy Ward
Events and Resources
Events
- Welcome Back Spring Kickoff – January 16, 2024
- FTF @ the Beach – April 6, 2024
- First to Fly Senior Send-Off – April 15, 2024
- Student Success Workshop Series
- Planning + Pastries - January 19, 2024
- Writing 101 - January 23, 2024
- Working on Networking - February 6, 2024
- How to Remember What You Just Read! - February 20, 2024
- Success Redefined - March 12, 2024
- It's Not Just You! (First Gen Q+A) - March 28, 2024
- Got Money? Manage it Well! - April 9, 2024:
- Tips for Internships - April 23, 2024
Resources
- University Admissions
- Scholarships
- Career Development Center
- Student Financial Services
- Campus Housing & Meals
- On-Site Counseling
- Sunbird Food Pantry
- Academic Success Center (Study Spaces, Academic Coaching, and Tutoring)
- Disability Access & Education
- Health Services
- Office of Diversity & Spiritual Formation
- Bookstore
- Hiebert Library