First Blazers Peer Mentoring

Are you a first-generation student beginning your journey at UAB? Join First Blazers, the first-generation, first-year student branch of the Blazer Mentorship Collective (BMC).

First Blazers helps new students build connections, navigate the transition to college, and develop a strong sense of belonging through peer mentoring, cohort meetings, campus involvement, and special events.

Members are paired with upper-class first-generation mentors who provide encouragement, guidance, and support throughout the year. Along the way, students build meaningful relationships, discover campus resources, and connect with a community that celebrates the strengths and experiences of first-generation students.

Joining First Blazers is more than joining a mentorship program. It's becoming part of a community committed to helping you thrive during your first year at UAB.

Eligibility

First Blazers is a peer mentorship community designed for UAB first-generation college students in their first year. At UAB, we recognize first-generation students as students whose parents or guardians have not completed a four-year college degree.

After their first year, students can continue connecting with the first-generation community through Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri Alpha), UAB’s first-generation honor society. While membership in Tri Alpha has specific GPA and credit-hour requirements, the Tri Alpha Executive Board will host group mentorship events during the Spring 2027 semester that are open to all UAB first-generation students.

Application Process

First Blazers applications open each semester, giving students multiple opportunities to join the program throughout the academic year.

Fall 2026 mentee applications are currently closed. However, students are welcome to attend any First Blazers event during the fall semester to connect with the community and learn more about the program. A new application will open for Spring 2027 for students interested in becoming a First Blazers mentee. To see upcoming events hosted by the First Blazers branch of the Blazer Mentorship Collective, visit our page on Engage.

Blazer Mentorship Collective on Engage

In the meantime, students with questions or who would like to learn more about First Blazers can reach out to the Department of Student Engagement at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Benefits of First Blazer Peer Mentoring

• Connect to relevant events and activities on-campus.
• Receive practical advice, encouragement, and support.
• Increase your social and academic confidence.
• Develop your communication, study, and academic skills.
• Identify goals and establish a sense of direction.
• Gain valuable insight into the next stage of your collegiate journey.
• Build your on-campus support network.

To learn more about the First Blazers program, including how to become a mentee or mentor, contact the Office of Student Mentorship and Leadership, located in Suite 311 of the Hill Student Center.

Are you a first-gen UAB student, but not a First Blazer, needing help?

Stop by the Office of Student Mentorship and Leadership to speak with the first-generation organization advisor or a First Blazer mentor. Here, we can assist you in finding the answers and support you need, while also helping you explore ways to get involved on campus and in the community.