East Tennessee State University will celebrate National First-Generation College Student Day on Monday, Nov. 9, with an event recognizing the achievements, experiences and contributions of first-generation students, faculty, staff and alumni.
The celebration will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at University Commons and will highlight ETSU's ongoing commitment to first-generation student success and its mission to serve the Appalachian region.
The event will feature student speakers who will share their experiences and perspectives, celebrate the accomplishments of the first-generation community and recognize the campus partners and supporters who help students navigate their college journeys. The celebration will also highlight ETSU's continued membership in the FirstGen Forward Network, which supports institutions working to improve outcomes for first-generation college students.
A first-generation college student is generally defined as a student whose parent or parents did not complete a four-year college or university degree. For many students, earning a degree means navigating unfamiliar systems and expectations while balancing academic, financial and personal responsibilities.
From understanding college applications and financial aid to managing tuition costs and adjusting to campus life, first-generation students may encounter challenges that extend beyond the classroom. Some may also experience feelings of uncertainty or imposter syndrome, questioning whether they belong in a college environment. Others may face the emotional challenges of leaving home or pursuing an educational path that differs from their family's experiences.
Recognizing these experiences is an important part of creating a campus environment where students feel supported and empowered to succeed. Through campus partnerships, student support initiatives and opportunities to share their stories, ETSU continues working to ensure first-generation students have access to the resources they need to thrive.
"At ETSU, we want our first-generation students to know they belong here, that their experiences and perspectives enrich our campus community and that the entire university is cheering them on," said Dr. Jennifer Osborne, assistant vice president for student success. "This celebration is an opportunity to recognize not only how far they have come, but also the incredible possibilities that lie ahead."
The celebration will provide an opportunity for the university community to reflect on the accomplishments of first-generation students and acknowledge the faculty, staff and supporters who help make those achievements possible.
By celebrating the experiences and contributions of first-generation students, ETSU reaffirms its commitment to expanding educational opportunities, strengthening student success and serving the region.
"As a first-generation student, I love ETSU because it's a place that meets you where you are while giving you the opportunity, encouragement and support to rise," said student Deziree Woods. "One message has been repeated throughout all my experiences here: Your future is in your own hands, but you don't have to do it alone."
