First Gen Week 2024
Events
We are excited to invite you to join us in celebrating Texas State University’s 6th Annual First-Generation Celebration Week! From November 4-8, there will be over 30 events across the San Marcos and Round Rock campus to recognize and celebrate the 43% of undergraduates and 30% of graduate students identify as being the first in their family to attend college. Please join us!
Kick Off Event! Grand Opening of First-Gen & Bobcats Bounce Back Lounge (Signature Event)
Monday, November 4, 2024
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Commons Dining Hall (2nd floor) - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Host: Dr. Frances Disney
Join First-Gen Proud & Bobcats Bounce Back for the opening of our brand-new student lounge! We will have light refreshments, swag, and a visit from Boko the Bobcat!
First-Gen Backyard Bash
Monday, November 4, 2024
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
The Quad - Round Rock Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students, Faculty & Staff
Host: Joclyn Martinez
Student Success invites you to kick-off First- Gen Week with some fun on the Quad. We will have swag, food, music, and games!
ITAC First-Gen Celebration Browse Table
Monday, November 4, 2024
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
The Quad - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Jenny Carrasco
Information Technology Assistance Center (ITAC) will provide service information for first-gen students and have opportunities to win raffle prizes!
Stay on Track with SLAC! How SLAC Supports First-Gen Students at TXST
Monday, November 4, 2024
12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Alkek Library, Room 409 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Host: Travis Moore
Come learn how the Student Learning Assistance Center (SLAC) supports first-gen students at Texas State University. This presentation will inform first-gen students about each of SLAC's services and how their utilization supports the mission of student success.
First-Gen Week Internship Workshop
Monday, November 4, 2024
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Virtual (Link)
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Remigio Casanova
Join us for an info session on how first-generation college students can successfully navigate the world of internships! This presentation will cover strategies for finding internships, tips for applying, and how to leverage your unique experiences. Whether you’re just starting your search or preparing for your first application, this event will equip you with the tools and confidence you need to thrive.
Bingo & First-Gen Mixer
Monday, November 4, 2024
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
THH Building, Room 474 - San Macros Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Host: Emily Gray and FLIP Officers
Come play BINGO with the First Gen Proud Graduate Assistants! The BINGO card will be created from fun facts about First-Generation students, resources, and more!
School of Social Work's First-Gen Student Panel
Monday, November 4, 2024
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Encino Hall, Room 214 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Hosts: Mr. Richard Brooks & Dr. Toni Moreno
Social work is about relationship, connections, and strength-based perspective. The school of Social Work is celebrating our First-Generation students. We will have a panel of First-Generation students in our BSW program or Alumni of our program. Hear their success stories about being a First-Generation student. You will be able to ask questions and network. Join us to food, fun, and support as you navigate your path to success.
First-Gen Speed Networking Mixer: First-Generation Students & Alumni
Monday, November 4, 2024
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Career Services, Room 502 (LBJ Student Center - 5th Floor), - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate, First-Gen Graduate Students & First-Gen Alumni
Host: Adam Hernandez
Join us for an exciting networking event designed for first-generation students and alumni! First-generation alumni professionals will share their personal journeys from college to career, offering valuable insights into the transition from student life to the workforce. Current students will have the opportunity to ask questions, learn from alumni experiences, and gain guidance on navigating their own professional paths. Don't miss this chance to connect, network, and be inspired by the success stories of fellow first-gen Bobcats!
First-Gen Faculty and Staff Professional Headshots
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Career Services, Room 502 (LBJ Student Center - 5th Floor), - San Marcos Campus
Audience: Faculty & Staff
Host: Aubrey Trujillo
Put on your professional wear and visit the Career Services Office to take a headshot using our IRIS booth. While you’re here, enjoy complimentary water and coffee, and take a moment to leave some words of wisdom for our first-gen students on our communal banner.
All of Us Journey Exhibit
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The Quad - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Host: Rachel Nemets
Join the College of Science and Engineering (CoSE) Experiential Education Certificate (EEC) Program at Texas State University as we celebrate National First-Gen Week with the All of Us Bus! Come aboard this traveling educational exhibit to learn how you can help shape the future of health for yourself, your family, your community, and generations to come. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to enroll in the All of Us Research Program, contributing to a diverse database that will help advance personalized medicine and health equity for everyone.
Planting Possibilities
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
In front of Commons Dining by the fountain - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Hosts: Dr. Frances Disney, Dylan Pique, Michelle Villalpando & Alexia Gutierrez
Students will cultivate their goals and plant the roots of their aspiration. Students also take home a small potted plant as a reminder of the growth you're set to achieve this year!
The College of Liberal Arts First-Gen Networking Event
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
1:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Flowers Hall, Room 230 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: Faculty, Staff, & First-Gen Undergraduate & Graduate Students in COLA
Hosts: Dr. Gloria Velasquez & Dr. Sara Ramirez
Join the College of Liberal Arts (COLA) in an informative presentation from their very own first-gen staff and the Dean. This will be a transformative experience for first-gen students, allowing them to find role models or support among the college's faculty and staff, who are first-generation college students and others who embrace first-generation students.
First-Gen Education Abroad Panel
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Alkek Library Open Theater, Room 240 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Hosts: Dr. Rafael Almanzar, Manon Bowen, & Emma Mayers
This engaging panel will feature three first-generation college students sharing their personal journeys and experiences studying abroad. From navigating the application process to adapting to life in a different country, our panelists will provide insights, tips, and inspiration for fellow first-gen students interested in exploring global opportunities.
Honoring Achievement: How Honor Societies Support First-Gen Success
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
THH Building, Room 474 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Hosts: Dr. Autumn Guel & Dylan Pique
This workshop is designed to introduce first-generation students to the opportunities and benefits of joining honor societies. Learn about the history and purpose of these prestigious organizations and how they can help you enhance your academic and professional journey. Special focus will be given to Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha), an honor society created specifically for first-gen students. Discover how you can become part of a supportive community that recognizes your hard work and helps you unlock future success. This session will also include a Q&A, so bring your questions! Don’t miss this chance to explore how honor societies can elevate your college experience.
All of Us Journey Exhibit
Wednesday, November 6, 7, & 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The Quad - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Host: Rachel Nemets
Join the College of Science and Engineering (CoSE) Experiential Education Certificate (EEC) Program at Texas State University as we celebrate National First-Gen Week with the All of Us Bus! This exciting event aims to honor and empower first-generation college students while providing valuable resources and support. Come aboard this traveling educational exhibit to learn how you can help shape the future of health for yourself, your family, your community, and generations to come. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to enroll in the All of Us Research Program, contributing to a diverse database that will help advance personalized medicine and health equity for everyone.
Once a First-Gen, Always a First-Gen: A Graduate School Panel
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Virtual
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Austin Allen
Are you a first-gen undergraduate student interested in pursuing graduate studies? Do you want to hear from first-gen graduate degree holders? The Graduate College hosts a special online information session titled Once a First-Gen, Always a First-Gen for first-gen undergraduate students and open to all students, which is held in the form of a panel discussion with successful first-gen graduate degree holders.
Letters To Your Future Self
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
ASBN Building - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergrad, First-Gen Graduate Students & First-Gen Alumni
Host: Camrie Pipper
As part of National First-Gen Week, join us at the University Writing Center to write a letter to your future self. Reflect on where you are now, your goals, and the dreams you’re chasing. We'll hold onto your letter and send it back to you in August 2025 as a reminder of how far you've come. Don't miss out on this chance to connect with your future self, celebrate your progress, and get to know the University Writing Center.
The "Imposter" in the Room: A First-Generation College Student
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Avery Building, Room 204 - Round Rock Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergrad & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Joclyn Martinez
First-generation college students often face feelings of imposter syndrome - the feeling of unworthiness. Join us as we define imposter syndrome, summarize cultural assets we bring to college as first-generation students, and identify skills to combat these feelings of unworthiness.
Embrace Yourself: More than an Imposter
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
1:00 p.m.- 2:00 p.m.
LBJSC, Room 322 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Hosts: Breona Jones, Destiny Buchanana, & Bemenet Buchananan
This workshop is a collaboration with the Mu Phi Chjapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. to educate first-gen undergraduate students on Imposter Syndrome. Creating a space for us to see that not only are we not alone but that it takes intentional work to combat it.
Write & Thrive: Rethinking Your Relationship to Writing
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Old Main, Room 234 & Virtual (Zoom)- San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Hosts: Dr.Joanna Collins & Cory Deboest
This workshop combines reflection activities with practical strategies to increase your confidence as a writer and improve your writing productivity. The session will challenge common writing myths and address typical pitfalls that often hold writers back such as waiting for inspiration, “binge writing,” all-or-nothing thinking, and more. Participants will identify their own attitudes and beliefs about writing; learn techniques to shift their writing mindset; and practice exercises to build writing stamina and promote more positive writing experiences.
Advancing #FirstGenProud at TXST: Staff Support Strategies
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Virtual (Zoom)
Audience: Staff & First-Gen Graduate Students
Hosts: Dr. Frances Disney & Dylan Pique
This workshop highlights practical strategies for staff and graduate students who inspire to work with first-gen students to enhance the overall success of first-gen college students (FGCS). Facilitators will highlight best practices in continuing to pioneer quality programs and services for TXST's first-gen students.
First-Gen Alumni Panel (Signature Event)
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
LBJ Student Center, Room 322 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Hosts: Dr. Victoria Black & Dr. Michael Preston
Join us for an engaging panel featuring successful first-gen college graduates. Hear their personal stories, challenges they overcame, strategies that helped them succeed, and what they are doing now post-graduation. With guest, Former NFL Player, Reggie Rivers, Keri Kokayi, and Dr. Deandra “Deedee” Cooper, PT, DPT.
Sunrise Yoga
Thursday, November 7, 2024
7:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.
The Quad - Round Rock Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate, First-Gen Graduate Students, Faculty & Staff
Host: Lee Roche
Start your day off right! Join Campus Recreation for a morning flow to stretch, breathe, and center yourself. As part of First-Gen week, Sunrise Yoga offers a moment for wellness. All are welcome! Mats and materials provided.
Political Science Celebrates First-Gen Students
Thursday, November 6, 2024
9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. // 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
THH Building, Room 105 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Melissa Rendon
Political Science invites you to celebrate First-Gen Students. We will be providing free snacks, drinks and swag on the third floor of THH Building. Please join us!
Discovering Your Why: A Journey of Meaning (Signature Event)
Thursday, November 7, 2024
11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
LBJSC Grand Ballroom - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students, Staff, & Faculty
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Stephanie Cuellar, Assistant Professor at Texas Christian University
Host: Dr. Rafael Almanzar
In this keynote address, Dr. Stephanie Cuellar will share her powerful journey of overcoming obstacles to achieve academic success. Through storytelling and visuals, Dr. Cuellar will inspire first-gen college students to reflect on their own "Why" for pursuing higher education and provide motivation and practical insights for first-gen students to achieve their ambitions and goals.
The Foundations of Money Management
Thursday, November 7, 2024
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Avery Building, Room 256 - Round Rock Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Joclyn Martinez
Add a little financial know-how, and you'll be on your way to making sound financial decisions. This seminar covers basics of budgeting, saving with purpose, and setting solid financial goals. Great for students or those just getting started on their financial journey.
Find Your Fit: Exploring Your Career Options as a First Gen Student
Thursday, November 7, 2024
1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Career Services, Room 502 (LBJ Student Center - 5th Floor), San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Aubrey Trujillo
Overwhelmed with major/career decisions? Come find Career Services on the 5th floor of LBJSC and we’ll help you on your path to “find your fit.” In this workshop, you will learn about the career decision-making and planning processes plus helpful tools you can use to explore your options when it comes to figuring out your career and major.
Validating First-Generation College Students: Proactive Affirmation of Students
Thursday, November 7, 2024
3:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
LBJSC 303 - San Marcos Campus (Virtual Option Available)
Audience: Faculty & Staff
Hosts: Dr. Rafael Almanzar, Dr. Candace Hastings, & Kamarie Carter
Join us for an interactive session with first-gen scholar Dr. Stephanie Cuellar, Assistant Professor at Texas Christian University, designed to inspire and equip faculty and staff with innovative strategies to support the success of first-generation college students (FGCS). Dr. Cuellar will provide a brief overview of key findings surrounding FGCS challenges and outcomes. Grounded in Laura Rendón's (1994) Validation Theory, this session will empower faculty and staff to see themselves as validating agents at TXST. Discover practical ways you can play a crucial role in helping FGCS thrive. Let's make a lasting impact together!
Two ways to join: In-person or online. In-person seats are limited. This event is co-sponsor by Faculty Development
Panel Discussion with First-Gen Students in Integrated Studies Program
Thursday, November 7, 2024
5:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m.
Alkek Libary Open Theater - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate Students
Hosts: Dr. Erika Nielson & Dr. Rafael Almanzar
Hear the experiences of TXST first-gen alumni who navigated Integrated Studies as their degree program. The alumni will offer tips and tricks for first-gen students, what is was like as an Integrated Studies major, and how the degree supported them on their post-graduation journey.
Resume 101 Workshop
Thursday, November 7, 2024
5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Career Services, Room 502 (LBJ Student Center - 5th Floor), - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Aubrey Trujillo
Is this your first time working on a college resume? Are you stuck when trying to describe your skills? Whether you are wondering how to get started or are interested in maximizing your resume to successfully apply for a job, Career Services has you covered. Join Career Services to learn helpful strategies on creating and tailoring your resume.
First-Gen Friday: Conchas y Café
Friday, November 8, 2024
10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Career Services, Room 502 (LBJ Student Center - 5th Floor), - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Aubrey Trujillo
Celebrate First-Gen Week with Career Services! Come to this come and go gathering to enjoy some pastries and coffee in our Career Café. In addition, receive immediate help with your career planning questions like resume tips, job search help, or any other questions you have.
Credit Card Makeover
Friday, November 8, 2024
11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Comal 116 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Joshua Edwards - University Federal Credit Union (UFCU)
Are you ready to transform your financial future? Our “Credit Card Makeover” event is designed to help you take control of your credit card usage and maximize your financial well-being. Whether you’re looking to reduce debt, improve your credit score, or simply make smarter spending decisions, this event is for you!
McCoy College First-Gen Networking Event
Friday, November 8, 2024
1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
McCoy Building, Room 434 - San Marcos Campus
Audience: First-Gen Undergraduate & First-Gen Graduate Students
Host: Nina Camacho
McCoy College of Business will host a welcome and networking reception for its first-generation students, faculty, and staff. The event welcomes first-generation students with insights from McCoy College faculty and upperclassmen, facilitated mentoring connections, encouraged networking, and more!