School of Public Health to celebrate first-generation students the week of Nov. 8
Join School of Public Health (SPH) faculty/staff, alumni and students for a celebration of all of those in our SPH family who identify as first-generation, or first-gen, college students. According to the federal definition used by TRIO programs, if your parent/guardian doesn’t have a four-year college degree, you’re a first-generation college student – or “FirstGen,” as it’s often referred to by WVU Student Success.
In conjunction with First-Generation College Celebration Day (Nov. 8), the SPH Office of Academic and Student Affairs will host two events, designed to elevate first-gen students and, ultimately, recognize the “Power of Going First.” Additional details about each event follow.
SPH First-Gen Networking: The Power of Going First (Virtual event) | Monday, Nov. 8
You’ll hear from first-gen faculty, staff and alumni during this virtual event. Following a brief welcome and introductions, attendees will head into breakout rooms, where SPH facilitators will lead informal discussions that will cover a myriad of helpful topics, including:
- Debunking imposter syndrome
- Navigating the path to – and through – graduate school
- Navigating familial relationships
- Life after higher education
- Negotiating first jobs/salaries
- The importance of embracing the distinction of being first-gen
When/Where/How:
- Monday, Nov. 8, from 6-7:30 p.m.
- Via Zoom
- Register here
- Download First-Gen Zoom backgrounds
First-Gen Grab-’n-Go Lunch | Wednesday, Nov. 10
Calling all First-Gens! Stop by 3301 to pick up a complimentary lunch. If your schedule allows, feel free to hang out for a bit to mingle with faculty, staff and fellow students. No registration required. Come and go as your schedule allows.
When/where:
- Wednesday, Nov. 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Health Sciences South, Room 3301
For more information about FirstGen resources provided by West Virginia University, visit the Student Success FirstGen website.
Interested in sharing your FirstGen story? Whether you're a current student, faculty/staff member and/or alumnus, the Marketing and Communications Office invites you to share by completing our online profile Q&A:
-WVU-
CONTACT: Nikky Luna, Director of Marketing and Communications
WVU School of Public Health
304.293.1699