Celebrating First-Gen Week

Greetings, Rutgers University–Camden Faculty and Staff!

It is my pleasure to announce the start of our First-Gen Week celebration at Rutgers–Camden. From Monday, November 6 to Friday, November 10, colleges and universities across the nation are taking the opportunity to recognize and support students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education. Empowering first-generation students to succeed is a central focus of Rutgers–Camden’s academic mission, so this observance carries special resonance throughout our community.
 
First-Gen Week is always a deeply personal period of the academic year; thinking back to my experience as a first-generation student, I remember the uncertainty my peers and I confronted as we navigated university life. When facing everything from the financial demands to the scholastic and social pressures of our new home, we could not always turn to our families for advice or support. This is why Rutgers–Camden faculty, staff, and students are committed to lending a hand. First­-Gen Week is a salute to the helpers at our university, but especially to the students who defy the odds in their success.
 
Throughout the week, Rutgers–Camden is hosting a full slate of events designed to help first-generation students tackle challenges and share their stories with others. Attendees will learn practical strategies for thriving on campus and enjoy opportunities to socialize with others in the first-gen community. I look forward to another year of strong and enthusiastic participation as we lift up first-generation students and honor their immense contributions to our university. While these events are open to all students, we specifically encourage our first-gen students to attend.

View First-Gen Events