The University of Georgia hosted First-Generation Celebration Week from Nov. 3–8, recognizing the achievements and resilience of students who come from families whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree.
With more than 4,600 first-generation undergraduates enrolled, UGA held a series of events designed to celebrate their stories, connect them with resources and build community.
“This week I get the reminder that I do belong and can contribute in the ways that matter most to me.” said Stephanie Barajas, a fourth-year accounting major and president of the First Gen Dawgs student organization.
The week kicked off with a panel featuring several student leaders who are first-generation, discussing their experience navigating college and taking on leadership roles. UGA President Jere W. Morehead attended the panel and shared his experiences as a first-generation college student.
Other events during the week included workshops on financial literacy, professionalism and overcoming imposter syndrome.
This year, First-Generation Celebration Week overlapped with UGA’s inaugural Family Weekend, held Nov. 6-9. As part of the festivities, the Office for Student Success and Achievement hosted the first Rural and First-Gen Family Reception on Nov. 7, where students wrote thank-you notes to their parents, and parents wrote notes of encouragement to their students.
“College was a new territory for me,” said third-year business and sport management major Mercy de Leon. “Being a first-gen student has allowed me to grow, be a mentor, be a leader and has been a journey I wouldn’t have any other way.”
Throughout First-Generation Celebration Week, hundreds of students, faculty and staff participated in events focused on building skills and connections. Together, these events underscored the university’s continued commitment to empowering first-generation students and supporting their success.
