Revson Plaza

While taking this next step in your academic journey, you may need some help along the way. Fortunately Columbia has a wide variety of support systems in place for its students.

Media Gallery

An aerial view of Low Library, a large dome shaped building with a set of stairs in front. Students are scattered across the quad.

Two students lounge on a stone ledge while talking and laughing. They have books, laptops, and study materials in between them. Being them is sculpture art and lush trees.

Student lounges while reading a book on a stone ledge. Behind her there are trees, sculpture art, and a glass building.

Support Outside the Classroom

First-Generation & Low-Income Students

👨‍🏫 Support Outside the Classroom

Academic Advising

All first-year students are matched with an academic adviser who supports them throughout their time as an undergraduate. Your adviser will help you as you transition to life as a college student, assist you in planning your academic journey, and can help you with any academic and personal concerns that may arise.

Professors are very accessible for office hours outside of class time, offering students the chance to get clarity on assignments, discuss the material from the course, and have broad conversations about the topic.

Peer tutors are also available through the Berick Center for Student Advising at no cost to students. These tutors are able to help with popular subjects such as physics, organic chemistry, calculus, and biology.

The Writing Center is a great resource for students who want to elevate their writing skills. In one-on-one sessions and workshops, consultants offer feedback and strategies to help you improve at every stage of your writing, from brainstorming to final drafts.

👩‍🎓 First-Generation & Low-Income Students

FLI @ Columbia

If you’re the first in your family to attend a four-year university, Columbia has the resources in place to support you. FLI@Columbia (first-generation, low-income) hosts faculty dinners for students to connect with professors who may also be first-generation; study sessions for students to gain helpful study tips; mixers to build community and provide safe spaces for discussion about the first-generation experience; and much more.

With 17% of our students being the first in their family to attend college, you’ll be able to connect with a wide variety of people from different backgrounds who share a similar experience. There’s even a Special Interest Community called UpLIFT House where first-generation students can form a supportive residential community.