Nearly one-third of the 18,000 undergraduates at Stony Brook University are the first in their families to pursue higher education. These first-generation college students often navigate unfamiliar terrain, facing unique challenges that range from limited awareness of campus resources to balancing familial and financial responsibilities, all while striving for academic excellence.
Recognizing the distinct needs of this student demographic, Stony Brook University’s New Student & Transitions Program spearheaded a comprehensive initiative for the past three years to foster a sense of belonging, empowerment, and academic success for our first-generation population. A dedicated committee of campus collaborations and first-generation students curated a series of events designed to provide sustained support from admission through graduation.
First-Generation Committee student members brought valuable reflections to committee discussions, and they consistently contributed with honesty, authenticity, and enthusiasm in shaping planning and programming efforts. Reflecting on their college journey, sharing insights on programs and activities they wish had been available when they first entered college to ease their transition. They also discussed how they navigated their first-generation status, integrated into student life, and addressed the unique challenges of being a first-generation student.
This initiative aligns with the national First-Generation College Celebrations, providing a structured week of programming that includes workshops on academic success and wellness, financial literacy, career development, mentoring and networking opportunities explicitly tailored to first-generation students. The first-generation programming committee also introduced a series of dynamic events, including the First-Generation Mixer, where students, faculty, and staff gather at the Uniti Cultural Center - a space envisioned and established by first-generation alumni to engage in meaningful discussions, share experiences, play games, and begin to build a supportive community. A highlight of the initiative, our First-Generation Panel, hosted during the Fall Brunch, offers students the opportunity to gain insights from peers and professionals who have navigated similar academic and personal journeys. Panelists share perspectives on academics, extracurricular involvement, and the broader college experience, equipping attendees with valuable strategies for success.
The culminating event, First-Generation Cafe, centers around the thought-provoking question, “Why Am I First?” and explored identity, resilience, and the transformative power of higher education. This reflective dialogue encouraged students to embrace their first-generation status as a source of strength, reinforcing its role in shaping their collegiate trajectories.
The committee also created a first-generation T-shirt template to further a culture of commitment and camaraderie. The marketing and communications team then refined the design, incorporating Stony Brook University's brand elements. During First-Generation Celebration Week, these T-shirts were distributed to students, faculty, and staff and will be a staple of our activities.
As we continue developing our programming, we aim to share and coordinate best practices across our SUNY network, expand our mentorship component, and enhance our assessment process. Ultimately, these activities celebrate the achievements of first-generation students, amplify awareness of their experiences, and cultivate an institutional culture that champions inclusivity, access, and academic excellence. Through these efforts, Stony Brook University recognizes the unique challenges first-generation students face and actively fosters an environment where they can thrive academically and socially.
Our efforts are seeding an institutional culture that supports and encourages our first-generation students' academic and social success.
For more information on Stony Brook University's approach, please visit their website here.
