Each year, from November 3 to 7, is National First-Generation Week. Its purpose is to celebrate first-generation college students’ achievements and bring awareness to the challenges that they face. This is Stevens’ third year honoring National First-Generation Week. It is filled with plenty of events to foster community and forge bonds between students and faculty.
Emilia Griffith, Coordinator of Student Culture and Belonging, stated that the First Generation and Limited Income (FLI) Network worked hard to make this year’s celebration as impactful as the previous years. The FLI Network consisted of eight staff members: Dr. Takeem Dean, Dr. Eve Riskin, Liliana Delman, Maryam Tobias, Dean Deborah Berkley, Alida McKee, Jane Winthrop, and Emilia Griffith. With feedback from last year and conversations with students, it was found that many first-generation students were seeking more opportunities for connections and community. So, a variety of informal and formal events were added to the FLI program calendar so students can comfortably engage and discover a sense of community. Griffith explained that their main objective for both the week and the network as a whole was to move beyond celebration and focus on empowerment and sustainable actions.
On Monday, November 3, the week began with a kickoff consisting of a carnival and resource fair. Students were able to explore a variety of resources from the different departments, including the Career Center, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), Student Health Services, and Student Employment. The Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) and the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) had fun activities like trivia, ring toss, and a bean bag toss game. By playing these activities, students could win raffle tickets for prizes like duck plushies and Legos. One first-generation student, Mirabel Babanawo, enjoyed the carnival and thought that it was a great opportunity to connect with her fellow students.
From then, each day had a different schedule, ranging from educational, social, and networking-based events. The events are as follows:
Tuesday, November 4: FLI Faculty Panel, where first-generation faculty share their stories of success and fostered connections between students and faculty.
Wednesday, November 5: Scavenger Hunt, where students find stickers to win prizes.
Thursday, November 6: Bowling Night, where you can bring your friends for fun and good vibes.
Friday, November 7: 2024 Leadership Conference: Rise and Redefine, with workshops, inspiring speakers, networking, and free headshots.
After celebration week, the FLI Network remains committed to supporting FLI students year-round. As a student-centered initiative, they have previously collaborated with various student organizations and hope that students and student organizations reach out so they can meet the campus’ needs. Griffith encouraged students to reach out to Maryam Tobias, the Assistant Director for First Generation and Limited Income Students. If you fit into either these categories, Tobias serves as an additional academic advisor who can support you in your college journey.
As a first-generation student themselves, Griffith noted how college felt both exciting and intimidating. Their biggest piece of advice was for first-gen students to remember that they belong and they don’t have to hide parts of themselves for “success.”
“I am so proud of each and every one of our brilliant first-generation students. You are innovators and leaders who will push the world to challenge and reimagine what success looks like through your courage and authenticity.”
