At Penn College, we celebrate the first-generation college student experience. You are a force of inspiration and empowerment. Together, we can transform tomorrow.
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.
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.
Welcome Week Event: First-Gen Meet Up
5:30 PM on Thursday, August 13
Join us for a Welcome Week meet up for first-generation students! Pizza, dessert, and soda will be provided, and games will be available to break the ice. Come grab a bite to eat and get to know some new people.
Student Advocacy Fair
2:00 PM on Tuesday, September 1
The Advocacy Fair is designed to connect students with valuable resources that support them in being academically successful. This fair offers students the opportunity to engage with organizations, learn about various advocacy initiatives, and discover tools to enhance their college experience. Join us to explore a wide range of support systems, network with peers and professionals, and empower yourself for success both on and off campus. Check it out on the LEC Mall from 2-5 p.m. on September 1st.
First-Gen Meet Up: Mama Martina's Food Truck Fundraiser
3:00 PM on Thursday, November 5
Support Tri-Alpha and get some great food from Mama Martina's Authentic Mexican food truck. Stop by the ATC area of the mall from 3-6 p.m. on to grab a bite to eat and support the Penn College Lambda Xi chapter of the National Honor Society for First-Generation College Students.
First-Generation Celebration & Student Showcase
3:30 PM on Thursday, November 5
All first-gen students (and their friends!) are invited to join us for the annual First-Generation Celebration & Student Showcase in the PDC. Come check out resources and check out the projects of other first-generation students across various majors and classes. Interested in participating by showing your own projects, artwork, or other class projects you are proud of? Contact Nick or Kaysey in the Hudock Center!
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.
“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!”
“Being a first-gen student means doing hard things but feeling greater 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.”
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
“Being a first-generation college student means paying homage to those before me and trailblazing for those coming after me.”
