# What amenities and activities can I find at the BU Newbury Center?

Olivia Watson · August 4, 2026

> The Newbury Center at Boston University began operation in January 2021, specifically designed to support first-generation students; this initiative...

The Newbury Center at Boston University began operation in January 2021, specifically designed to support first-generation students; this initiative reflects a growing recognition of the unique challenges faced by this demographic in higher education.

Named after Newbury College, which closed in 2019, the center was endowed with a $6 million donation intended to create meaningful support for students arriving at college without familial experience in navigating higher education.

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The Newbury Center focuses on holistic student success, which includes academic support, mental health services, career development, and community engagement, all pivotal to fostering resilience and achievement.

The term “first-generation student” can encompass a range of backgrounds, including those whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree, as well as individuals who may be the first in their family to attend college in the United States.

First-generation students often encounter challenges such as lack of informational resources, financial difficulties, and feelings of isolation which can impact their academic performance and retention rates.

Research indicates that first-generation college students are significantly less likely to engage in social networking opportunities, which can be crucial for building professional connections that promote career growth.

The Newbury Center offers mentorship programs that connect students with faculty, alumni, and peers who can provide guidance and support, recognizing the importance of network-building in personal and professional development.

The center also emphasizes financial literacy, teaching students how to manage student loans, budgeting, and understanding financial aid processes, which are essential skills for navigating college life.

Through programming designed to create community, the Newbury Center provides events and workshops that allow first-generation students to share experiences and build connections with one another, fostering a sense of belonging.

A significant part of the center’s mission is to advocate for first-generation students at an institutional level by addressing systemic barriers within the university, ensuring that these students have equitable access to resources.

The executive director of the Newbury Center, Maria Erb, has a background that reflects many of the challenges faced by first-generation students herself, which helps her lead the center with empathy and understanding.

Events such as First-Gen College Celebration Day, which commemorates the achievements of first-generation students, foster visibility and recognition of their contributions within the university community, increasing awareness about their experiences.

The center is located in the heart of Boston, which allows students to benefit from the rich academic and professional landscape of the city while also providing a supportive hub amidst the hustle of urban life.

The Newbury Center aligns with growing trends in higher education that focus on inclusion and support for underrepresented groups, reflecting a societal shift toward understanding and addressing educational inequities.

Data from institutions with dedicated support services for first-generation students show that these initiatives significantly improve graduation rates, illustrating the positive impact of targeted programming.

The evolution of the Newbury Center responds to national trends in higher education, where institutions are increasingly recognizing the need for tailored support systems for diverse student backgrounds.

The concept of community-building at the Newbury Center serves as a model for how higher education can serve as a facilitator for personal growth, empowerment, and professional development.

Innovative collaborations are fostered at Newbury Center with career development and experiential learning programs, giving students unique opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge in practical settings.

With ongoing research into best practices for supporting first-generation students, the Newbury Center continues to adapt its strategies based on the latest evidence and outcomes from similar programs nationwide.

The emergence of dedicated resources such as the Newbury Center reflects a broader commitment within the education sector to dismantle barriers and create pathways for success among all students, particularly those who are often overlooked.

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