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STUDENT SUCCESS CENTRE

First Generation Students

Last Updated on: November 14, 2025

Are You a First Generation Student?

If you are the first one in your family (not including your siblings) to attend post-secondary education, you are a First Generation Student!

As a first generation student you may face unique experiences in and outside of post-secondary school. We are eager to support you throughout your time at Toronto Film School and look forward to answering your questions and connecting with you!

Tips for First Generation Students

Don’t be shy!
There are people here who are eager to help you. Introduce yourself to your instructors, program directors, and your program advisor.
Use the resources that are available.
We have a lot of them, some of which are below.
Maintain a good balance between your academic, social, work and family responsibilities.
Check out Student Resources for tips to help you develop this.
Get involved!
Getting involved helps you learn about your school community and helps you get connected with your peers.
Ask questions.
It’s entirely normal for first-generation students to have a lot of questions. Please reach out to your program director, program advisor, or instructors with any questions you might have. Check out the Faculty & Staff Directory to find contacts at your campus.

What Services are available for First Generation Students?

At TFS, you have financial advisors who are ready to answer any questions you have. Whether it includes government sponsored student assistance programs, or paying on your own, there is always someone available to talk to when you have financial questions. Contact us and we can get you connected with one of our financial advisors.

If you ever have questions, comments, or concerns about your program during the duration of your time at TFS, you can speak with your program director(s) or your campus principal. Click here for the directory, or contact us and we’ll put you in touch.

  • Hassle Free Clinic: provides free medical and counselling services in many areas of sexual health. Located in downtown Toronto.
  • Sherbourne Health Centre:  Sherbourne Health Centre offers a wide range of primary healthcare programs and services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, two-spirited, intersex, queer or questioning individuals. Their goal is to provide dignified, non-judgmental services to help clients feel better, cope better with day-to-day challenges and address specific LGBTQ health issues.
  • Click here for a database of additional sexual health clinics throughout the city of Toronto.
  • The University Health Network (UHN) publishes an LGBTQ Community Services and Resources Directory.  Click here to download.
  • Check out our resources page LGBTQ+ Students

A peer tutor can support you and help you boost your grades. The Peer Tutoring Program is a complimentary service that is available to all TFS students to help you achieve success in your academic program. Check out Peer Tutoring for more information

For a list of housing resources, check out Housing Resources.

We have put together several resources to help you succeed in your studies. Check out Academic Success and Student Resources.

Reach out to your Program Advisor any time you want to talk. They are here to assist you!