First Generation Week: Celebrating Pioneering Students in Higher Education
The annual First Generation College Celebration Day, a day dedicated to recognising and celebrating the achievements of first-generation college students, has been expanded to a full week in 2023. This expansion, known as F1RST Gen Week, provides a longer period for celebration, community building, engagement, and fun activities for these students.
This change was implemented to offer more comprehensive recognition and support to first-generation college students, moving beyond a single day of celebration. At the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), for instance, students were invited to participate in a weeklong series of events from November 6 to 10, 2023.
The F1RST Gen Week events included a variety of activities designed to foster community and engagement among first-generation students. These included workshops on financial aid, study skills, and time management, a panel discussion on navigating college as a first-generation student, a mentorship program pairing first-generation college students with successful alumni, and a networking event for students to connect with professionals.
The week also featured a keynote speech by a successful first-generation college graduate and a film screening of a documentary about the experiences of first-generation college students. A resource fair providing information on scholarships, internships, and career opportunities was also held during the F1RST Gen Week.
The F1RST Gen Week aims to celebrate the success of first-generation college students, who often face unique challenges as they navigate the college system. Being the first in a family to attend college can come with a lot of hurdles, making the success of these students all the more noteworthy.
The week concluded with a closing ceremony, marking the end of the F1RST Gen Week and celebrating the achievements of first-generation college students. A follow-up survey was sent to participants of the F1RST Gen Week to gather feedback and measure the event's impact.
The expansion of the First Generation College Celebration Day to a full week of events is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of supporting first-generation college students. As the number of first-generation students continues to rise, it is crucial that they receive the necessary support and recognition to ensure their success in higher education.
[1] Source: UTSA Today
During the F1RST Gen Week at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), students participated in a range of events promoting education-and-self-development, such as workshops on learning essential skills like financial aid, study skills, and time management. The week's activities also included panel discussions, mentorship programs, networking events, and a keynote speech aimed at helping first-generation students navigate their college journey and achieve success.
