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. Nearly 39% of Penn College students identify as first-generation. We also have former first-generation college students among our faculty and staff.

First-Generation Celebration

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.

Aug 14

Community Lunch 12 p.m.

12:00 PM

Add us to your Welcome Week schedule! Join us for the first-generation community lunch in the Hudock Center, DJG 1048 & 1049, from 12-1 p.m. Grab some lunch and make connections with other first-gen students and staff from around campus!

Additional first-generation student info sessions will be offered on Friday and Sunday. Check Engage for locations and times.

Aug 21

First-Gen Meetup: Bookmarks Café

3:30 PM

Join new and returning first-generation students for a social meetup on Thursday, August 21st at 3:30 p.m. at Bookmarks Café in the Madigan Library. Make connections. Get support. The first 10 first-gen students will receive a 12oz beverage voucher.

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. 

 

Contact Information
I am a first-generation student.
You're considered a first-generation college student if your parents have not earned a four-year college degree.
I am a first-generation champion.
A champion may or may not be a first-generation college student. These individuals support and elevate the first-generation student experience.
Tomorrow is in the Making