University of Bridgeport's First-Generation College Celebration
November 8
2021 First-Generation College Celebration
At the University of Bridgeport, we hope to continue to do great work in educating around what it means to be first-generation as well as celebrate those that are first to go to college. This year, our plans are to work closely with Residence Life and their Living and Learning Community focused on first-generation students.
Our programing will include this year the following:
- Highlights of first-generation alumni, staff, faculty, and a student
- Senior Pinning Ceremony - seniors are given a first-gen pin for graduation
- Residence Life Circle Dialogues around focused topics first-gen students struggle with
- Residence Life Monthly First-gen Pasta Night
- First-Gen Celebration on November 8th
- First-generation photo booth
- Workshops for first-gen students around financial planning, code switching, etc.
- First-generation Cross-Institutional Student Panel
2019 First-Generation College Celebration
In 2019, we have decided to create a First-Generation Committee which is charged with creating small and large first-generation student programming that will take place over the course of the year. We will provide faculty/staff with "First-Generation" stickers so students know who they can go to in order to discuss what it means to be first-gen and to grow their support system.
Additionally, we will host six First-Generation Friday Luncheons as an opportunity for students to ask questions, talk about their experience and successes. The University will host a week-long First-Generation Celebration week in November. This week will have several events to acknolwedge first-generation students including but not limited to an alumni highlight event and a luncheon.
In the spring, we have scheduled a first-generation student service project, where furtuer first-generation students will be matched with first-gen college students and participate in a mentoring day at the University. For graduation, graduating first-gen students will receive a First-Generation stole and celebrate their accomplishments!
2018 First-Generation College Celebration
In 2018, the University of Bridgeport hosted a First Generation luncheon with music and couches for students to sit and eat. The University also had a podcast showcasing first-generation student experiences and their successes. In addition, we put up two bulletin boards. One of the boards was dedicated to providing tips from current first-generation students to future first-feneration students. Additionally, we had a board where we posted all the resources available for the students. We also had raffles, games, and important information about programs around tables.
For the latest updates on this celebration, visit the University of Bridgeport's website to show your support!
