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Dyersburg State Community College celebrated our First-Generation college students during the National First-Generation College Celebration across our three campuses. No matter which campus our students call home, each first-generation student plays an important role in shaping our college community. The event was more than a day on the calendar. It was a great moment to pause, reflect, and recognize the importance of our first-generation college students to the Dyersburg State community. Our 2025 First-Generation College Celebration may have been small in size, but it was powerful in meaning. While it was not a large-scale event with hundreds of attendees, what it lacked in numbers was made up for in connection, authenticity, and impact.
Being a first-generation college student means doing something that no one in your immediate family has done before. It means figuring things out as you go. From filling out the FAFSA forms, to meeting with an advisor and choosing classes, and learning the “hidden curriculum” of college life. This college journey for first-generation students is largely navigated alone. This can feel overwhelming at times, but it does make accomplishments that much more meaningful.
One of the most exciting parts of this year’s celebration was handing out our First-Generation shirts to students. Dyersburg State is so grateful to have been selected for the First-Generation College Celebration grant opportunity, and the store credit was used to purchase First-Gen shirts. This support makes a huge difference to our students. These shirts are not just shirts to wear; they are a way to acknowledge first-generation identity. A student stated, “I am first-gen, and I belong here.” Those words could not be truer. This was a simple way to acknowledge these students and let them know we are proud to have them as a part of our Dyersburg State community.
Support like this sends a powerful message: our journey matters, our challenges are recognized, and our successes are worth celebrating. What made the event especially impactful was the sense of belonging it fostered. On a campus where it is easy to move from class to class without really stopping to connect, this gave students, faculty, and staff a chance to slow down.
One thing that stood out during the celebration was how many students do not realize they are first-generation college students. Many assumed that the term does not apply to them because they have a sibling or an extended family member in college. As we talked through the definition of what a first-generation college student is, you could see it click. It is so important to help students realize how significant this accomplishment is for not only themselves but also for their families.
As we move forward, the First-Generation College Celebration serves as a reminder that none of us is alone in this experience. We are building a community that uplifts and supports one another. To every first-generation student on our campus, this celebration was for you. Your hard work, courage, and perseverance inspire us all. We truly hope that all first-generation college students at Dyersburg State feel supported.
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