The Newbury Center opened its doors in January 2021 with the goal of fostering the holistic success of first-generation students at Boston University—students we refer to as “Terrier F1RSTS.” We aim to become a highly visible, transformative unit of the University, offering programming and services designed to ensure that first-generation students experience the same sense of well-being, belonging, self-efficacy, and academic accomplishment as their continuing-generation peers. The center is primarily funded by an endowment established with funds received from Newbury College, a private liberal arts college that served many first-generation students in nearby Brookline before closing its doors in 2019.
Specific initiatives include:
Part of fostering the first-generation student is providing them resources to help them succeed.
Join the Newbury Center and the entire BU community as we celebrate the achievements and experiences of our first-generation undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. While the official date for the National First-Generation College Celebration is November 8th, we're celebrating for a whole week. The Newbury Center and the entire BU community events: Monday, November 3rd: […]
Let’s give a round of applause to Stephanie Campos, a first-gen BU alum and East Boston resident, on her appointment to Boston Mayor Michelle Wu’s SPARK Boston Council, where she’ll connect young adults to civic engagement and community impact. Learn more about Stephanie's story in BU Today's latest article. Read Stephanie's Story Here
Brianna Perales turned her passion for problem-solving into hands-on research through BU’s REM-Includes program, gaining lab skills and confidence as a first-gen engineering student. The program continues to open doors for first-gen and low-income students, giving them early access to groundbreaking STEM opportunities. Learn more about how BU students are bridging the opportunity gap in […]
If you missed our 2025 F1RST Families Summer Transition Program, here's a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the Newbury Center. In this recording, you'll learn all about how we support your student on their unique first-generation journey. From holistic advising to events and workshops, we're here every step of the way. What is a […]
You can now schedule holistic advising meetings right in your MyBU Student Portal! Under the Advising panel, you'll be able to schedule, cancel, and keep track of your meetings all in one place. What is Holistic Advising? Our professional staff is here to support you throughout your time at Boston University, and one method is […]
What is a first-generation undergrad student? A student in the first generation of their family to go to college (i.e., a student whose parents/guardians/caregivers did not earn bachelor’s degrees, although elder siblings and cousins may be attending college already or have earned four-year degrees). What is a first-generation graduate/professional student? A student whose parents/guardians/caregivers did […]
Jayde Best's first-gen journey is one many of us can relate to: navigating a new beginning, self-discovery, and finding community. After discovering the Newbury Center and being introduced to Maria Dykema Erb, Jayde knew she wasn't alone. Learn more about Jayde's story in BU Today's latest article. Read Jayde's Story Here
"Always greet the host, don't order anything too expensive, and be on time" — BU lecturer Lisa Flores is a master of business dining etiquette. Last month, she hosted The Art of Modern Business Etiquette Dinner to teach first-gen students the ins and outs of attending a formal dinner. Check out what BU Today says […]