First-Generation College Students
At Penn College, we celebrate the first-generation college student experience. You are a force of inspiration and empowerment. Together, we can transform tomorrow.
Who is a first-generation college student?
A first-generation college student is defined as someone having parents or guardians who have not earned a four-year college degree. Roughly 39% of Penn College students identify as first-generation. We also have former first-generation college students among our faculty and staff.
Opportunities to Connect
There are multiple ways that first-generation students can get involved and connect with other first-gen students. Check out our pages for Tri-Alpha, the National Honor Society for First-Generation College Students, or our First-Generation College Celebration page for a taste of past events.
Jan 26
Tri-Alpha Honor Society Applications Open
12:00 PM
Alpha Alpha Alpha Honor Society applications will open on or around January 26th and remain open through Friday, February 6th. Eligible members will receive an email invitation to join with further instructions. Applications can be found under "Forms" on Engage. Students must have a 3.2 cumulative enrollment GPA, have earned 30 credits, and be a first-generation college student. See the Tri-Alpha webpage for more information about eligibility requirements.
Jan 29
First-Gen Campus Meet Up
3:00 PM
All first-gen students on campus are invited to join us for a first-gen meet up from 3-4:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 29th. Location TBD. Check Engage for more details.
Mar 18
First-Gen Meet Up: Mama Martina's Food Truck Fundraiser
11:30 AM
Support Tri-Alpha and get some great food from Mama Martina's Authentic Mexican food truck. Stop by the ATC area of the mall between 11:30 and 4 p.m. on both March 18th and 19th to grab a bite to eat and support the Penn College Lambda Xi chapter of the National Honor Society for First-Generation College Students.
Apr 11
Tri-Alpha Honor Society Induction & Graduation Celebration
10:30 AM
Join new and returning Alpha Alpha Alpha members should mark their calendars for the spring induction and graduation celebration on Saturday, April 11th from 10:30-12 p.m. in the Davie Jane Gilmour Center presentation room.
On the Podcast
Tomorrow Makers
Future Made By Hand
Join the community.
Whether you're a first-gen college student, a champion, or both, raise your hand and your voice. Together, we can boost awareness and embolden the first-gen journey. Identify via the form below to learn about upcoming initiatives and engagement events designed to build a community of advocates across campus.
Tomorrow is in the Making
“If you’re a first-generation student, you don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Connect with other first-gens (of all ages and experience levels) to see how we did it!”
Summer Bukeavich
Associate Professor, Business Administration/Management & Marketing
“Being a first-gen student means doing hard things but feeling greater success.”
Kaysey Beury
Assistant Director of Student Success
“Being a first-generation college student didn't mean as much to me as it did to my parents. I will be forever grateful for my parents and their ability to see what was best for me, even when I couldn't see it for myself.”
Chuck Crews, Jr.
Associate Director of Secondary Partnerships
“As a first-generation student, I was able to open doors that might not have opened otherwise. It’s not only about the education, but the opportunities, networking, and connections along the way!”
Christine Eckenrod
Assistant Professor/Director Radiography
“Having been a first-generation student, I am grateful for the work my family put forth in order for me to have the privilege to expand my learning and opportunities.”
Michael Reed
President
“My educational journey was not typical of most college students. I spent 20 years earning a bachelor’s degree. Being a first-generation college student means the world to me.”
Howard Troup
Instructor, Automated Manufacturing & Machining
“Being a first-generation college student means paying homage to those before me and trailblazing for those coming after me.”
Nate Woods, Jr.
Executive Director for Student Wellbeing & Inclusive Excellence