Celebrate the achievements of first-generation college students during First Generation Week from November 4-7, 2024. With the support of a $1,000 grant from NASPA, EOP and the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management are hosting a series of inspiring events, culminating in the First-Gen Connect: Engage, Learn, Celebrate on November 7.
Fresno State First Generation Week Events
The EOP Continuing Team (Angelica Robles-Trinh, Mai Lee, Pajai Xiong, and Lupe Wells) applied for a grant through NASPA, and Fresno State was awarded a grant of $1,000! Through this grant and additional support from the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, they were able to organize events for the first week of November. First Generation College Celebration (FGCC) celebrates and recognizes the achievements of students who are the first in their families to attend college. FGCC is celebrated annually on November 8th to commemorate the signing of the Higher Education Act (“HEA”) of 1965 by then-President Lyndon B. Johnson. This act created federal financial aid programs to fund students’ educations and made key investments in colleges and universities. The campus celebration will take place from Monday, November 4, to Thursday, November 7, 2024. The festivities will culminate on Thursday, November 7, with the First-Gen Connect: Engage, Learn, Celebrate event at the Satellite Student Union from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Following the celebration, November 8 will feature a Social Media Spotlight Day!
Monday, November 4
Stress Jeopardy
Join the Student Health and Counseling Center at the Resnick Student Union (Room 207) from 10AM to 11AM for a fun game of stress jeopardy and learn how to manage your stress, especially as a First-Generation student.
* RSVP Required (Students Only)
Tuesday, November 5
Arts and Crafts
Participate with other students and staff in arts and crafts at the Resnick Student Union (Rooms 206, 207, 209) from 10:30AM to 12:30AM and 1:30PM to 3:30PM.
* RSVP Recommended (While Supplies Last)
Wednesday, November 6
Good Morning Commuters Tabling
Tune-in or participate in this Off-Campus Student Life hosted event as speakers talk about their experience on campus at the Speakers Platform from 7:30AM to 9:30AM.
RSVP Not Necessary
Thursday, November 7
First-Gen Connect: Engage, Learn, Celebrate
Celebrate your first-generation status, learn from others, and network with other first-generation staff/students during this huge first-generation event at the Satellite Student Union from 10AM to 3PM.
RSVP Recommended (All are welcome)
Friday, November 8
National First-Gen Celebration: Social Media Spotlight
Read all about other first-generation staff/students on social media. Use these tags to participate on your own account: #CelebrateFirstGen #BulldogSuccessStory #FirstGenBulldogPride #BulldogFirst #BulldogFirstGenDay
(Instagram: @fresnostateeop)
Understanding First-Generation Status
The term “first-generation” typically refers to students whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree, but its definition varies widely among institutions. While some define it based on whether a student’s biological parents attended any post-secondary education, others consider whether degrees were completed or where they were earned. This variation leads to discrepancies in how first-generation students are identified, with numbers ranging significantly depending on the criteria used. First-generation students may face challenges due to a lack of cultural capital in navigating college systems, which can affect their confidence and success. As such, institutions are encouraged to define and support these students carefully to better track their progress and provide necessary resources.
Though the definition may vary, being a first-gen student generally means your parents did not complete a four-year college or university degree. Some schools may use a different definition, so it’s a good idea to ask your institution.
If your parents took a few college classes or even completed community college, you will still be considered first-gen. Check in with a campus resource in admissions, academic advising, or student services to learn more!
Yes. Being a first-gen student means that your parent(s) did not complete a 4-year college or university degree, regardless of other family member’s level of education.
Many colleges and universities are beginning to consider students with parents who attended international universities as first-gen.
Bottom Line? Ask your academic advisor as it varies per institution, especially if you’re applying for grad school.
Even if you don’t count as a first-generation student, it’s still important to recognize barriers that may set you apart from other students. For example, coming from a low-income family or being a former foster-youth student may still qualify you for aid. It does not invalidate your experiences and need for additional resources.
First Generation Staff on Campus
Many members of the campus staff are first-generation college graduates, and they have gone on to excel in their respective roles! These individuals serve as an inspiration to both students and colleagues alike, demonstrating the heights that can be reached through perseverance and dedication. Here are just a few examples of the first-generation staff who are making a significant impact on campus today:
Dr. Rashanda Booker
Community Experts
Dr. Shimel Her Saychou
Community ExpertsFor more information and spotlight stories, visit our First Generation resources page!
