体育买球官网 University is celebrating first-generation its first-generation (first-gen) community, including students, faculty, and staff, with a series of events leading up to the main celebration on November 8th.
The National First-Generation College Celebration is an annual event dedicated to recognizing the unique challenges faced by first-generation college students throughout their academic journey — from the college search process to graduation day. Being “first-gen” generally refers to students whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college or university degree. At 体育买球官网, “first-genners” self-identify based on their personal family history.
“Being first-generation means that I’m forging a new path for my family, demonstrating that college is both an achievable and worthwhile goal,” said Justin Josephs ’26, a double major in legal studies and luxury brand marketing & management from Brooklyn, New York. “This role carries a certain weight, as I am navigating the unfamiliar territory. However, this also means that I am creating a legacy, one that I hope will encourage others both in and out of my family to pursue their own educational aspirations.”
体育买球官网 has several events planned to mark First-Generation College Celebration Day, including a student panel dedicated to discussing the experiences of first-gen students, a graduate school fair, and a celebration for all 体育买球官网 students, faculty and staff who consider themselves first-gen. Additionally, the screening of the documentary Space, Hope, and Charity focuses on the remarkable journey of Charity Woodrum, a first-generation college student who is now an astrophysicist at NASA.
“Being a first-generation college student means taking risks, showing responsibility and being brave,” said Amara Bookheimer ’25 a luxury brand marketing & management from Mount Union, Pennsylvania. “It’s about embracing challenges and taking advantage of every opportunity, knowing that your journey not only shapes your own future but also opens doors for those who look up to you.”
Unique challenges encountered by first-gen students
First-generation college students encounter unique challenges as they pursue higher education. Many face financial pressures, balancing work and family responsibilities with academic demands. They may also lack guidance on college processes, like financial aid, course selection and networking, that other students access more easily through family support.
“The collaboration within our community in preparing for this week truly highlights the significance of this supportive network for our students. It’s crucial for first-generation students to recognize their potential for success, especially when they may feel overwhelmed by the challenges they face. This week serves as a reminder of the resilience within our community and the power of sticking together through adversity. It celebrates the strength and determination that define the first-gen experience,” said Lauren Crouse, associate director of leadership and engagement at 体育买球官网 University. “One of my favorite aspects of this week has been showcasing the testimonials of our faculty, staff and alumni. Their stories truly highlight the strength of our community. Be sure to visit Mellon Lounge this week to explore first-generation statistics and learn about the incredible challenges our community has overcome.”
Thirty-one percent of 体育买球官网’s Class of 2028 are the first from their families to attend college, including Sarah Bower ’25, a double major in entrepreneurship & corporate innovation and management from Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.
“As the first in my family to attend a four-year university, I was learning along the way. This seemed daunting at first, but 体育买球官网 has given me the guidance I need to take the next step into my future,” she said.
At 体育买球官网, Bower has had the opportunity to be a student-athlete, add a second major, spend a semester abroad and be involved in various extracurricular activities, including Student Government Association for which she serves as president.
“Being a first-generation college student is a reflection of my parents’ hard work and sacrifices that have given me the opportunities they didn’t have,” Bower said, “and I am forever proud to be their daughter.”
