Student Enrichment Services
Student Enrichment Services (SES) is an office that provides programs, advising, and resources to support a wide range of students, including those who may be first generation college students, come from lower-income backgrounds, or are navigating complex personal, financial, or legal circumstances, to help reduce barriers to participation and support successful transitions to Northwestern.
Through campus-wide partnerships, SES works to build a Northwestern community that is welcoming, supportive, and accessible for all students.
What is FGLI?
Pronounced "fig-lee," the acronym FGLI refers to first-generation and/or lower-income students.
First-generation college students who are first in their families to graduate from a four-year college or university. At Northwestern, we recognize the contributions that our first-generation students, faculty, and staff bring to campus.
Lower-income students are usually (but not always) eligible for Pell Grants. At Northwestern, lower-income status is determined by financial aid and may not mirror how income is measured in the United States broadly.
SES programs and resources are available to any student who believes they may benefit from additional support or connection to campus resources.
Students with questions or who are seeking support are encouraged to contact SES directly or complete the SES Interest Form to learn more about available resources.
Our dedicated staff can help connect you to FGLI communities and resources in our office and across campus and help make your transition to Northwestern successful. No question is too small or too big. SES also has a student facing space available to students to study and hangout. We even have snacks and coffee/tea!
Apply to the Summer Academic Workshop
Application Open: Thursday, May 14, 2026
Application Deadline: Sun, May 31, 2026
Application: 2026 Summer Academic Workshop
Northwestern University's Summer Academic Workshop (SAW) is a 3-week program taking place right before Wildcat Welcome. SAW is facilitated by Student Enrichment Services, in partnership with the Cook Family Writing Program and the School of Communication. Participants also earn course credit through the Cook Family Writing Program and the School of Communication. All co-curricular workshops and events complement what students learn in class and provide them with a wealth of resources for navigating college life.
SAW is an all-cost covered program—including housing, meals, tuition, afternoon workshops, and weekend social opportunities. Students live together in a campus residence hall and experience Northwestern life under the mentorship of six upper-class peer counselors. Participants also move into their permanent residence hall earlier than the regular move-in date for incoming students. Air travel for students living more than a 3-hour drive (about 150 miles) from campus will be arranged and paid for by SAW.
Getting involved in SES programs and communities
SES's programs, workshops, and other events inform students about various resources and the many connections they can make to support their success at Northwestern. Participation in SES programs is voluntary and open to students who are interested in learning more about available resources and opportunities.
- Quest+: A program that provides information, resources, and connection to help students navigate the academic, financial, and social aspects of college. Quest+ is designed to support students who are the first in their families to attend college and others who may benefit from additional guidance in accessing campus resources, but participation is open to any student who is interested.
- Compass: A cohort-based mentorship program that connects first-year students with upper-level student mentors to support the transition to Northwestern. Compass is particularly well-suited for first-generation students seeking structured peer mentorship during their first year, and participation is open to students who are interested in mentorship, guidance, and community connection.