Student Services

First in Family to attend College?

If you are a first-generation learner at NBCC, we’ve got your back!

47% of NBCC students are the first person in their family to attend College*

At NBCC, a first-generation learner is defined as someone who is the first person in their family to attend college or university, so consider yourself a trailblazer – we do! Just know that you are not alone, NBCC is here to support you along the way.

It’s easy to have a lot of self-doubt, but what is important is to push through that self-doubt and realize that education is something that you will always be able to fall back on. You can use it to push yourself toward a better future

Naomi MahoneyPresident of NBCC Prov. SU

At NBCC, we believe that none of us, individually, is as strong as all of us together. That means we are here for you now – and always.

Mary Ellen Kingston-RitchieDirector Student Development

Student Success Coach

The Student Success Coach will initiate contact and provide advising to student populations. This includes but is not limited to First Generation students, In-Bloom students, and Former Youth in Care Bursary recipients to assist them in their transition to NBCC and encourage growth and development throughout their college experience. The coach will empower students to identify and achieve their educational, personal, and professional goals through coaching sessions and connecting them with resources within and beyond NBCC.

Yueyun Long

YUEYUN LONG
First Generation and International Student Success Coach

I am so glad you are here, and I am happy to offer International and First Generation learners assistance and support. If there are any challenges in your way towards academic, financial, career and personal success, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We can walk through the challenges together by connecting you with NBCC services, peers and more! I look forward to meeting you! Here are a few facts about me: nature and hugging my dogs make me feel calm.  5 years ago, I was an international student who moved to Canada.

Contact: yueyun.long@nbcc.ca 
Online Booking: Click here to book an appointment

Katie Gibbs

KATIE GIBBS
First Generation and International Student Success Coach

I look forward to getting to know you during your time at NBCC! I am one of your International and First-Generation Student Success Coaches. It is my goal to help you identify, plan, and overcome potential obstacles related to your academic success and personal wellness. I will make effective referrals to the right services at NBCC and in the community. We will work together to provide you with development sessions and establish meaningful connections to peer groups. A few facts about me: I enjoy outdoor adventures of any kind, the sea is my happy place, and I’ve lived and worked in several countries as a language instructor.

Contact: katie.gibbs@nbcc.ca 
Online Booking: Click here to book an appointment

More Information

If you have a college related question and don’t know where to turn, email Firstgen@nbcc.ca for help. You belong here and your success is our success. TOGETHER WE RISE!

* NBCC students who completed the 2019 Student Experience Survey.