Every November, Long Beach State University proudly celebrates FirstGen Celebration At the Beach—a dedicated time to uplift the grit, resilience, and brilliance of first-generation students, faculty, and staff. The weeklong celebration brings together departments, programs, and campus partners in a powerful demonstration of what makes CSULB exceptional: when we collaborate, we elevate our community.
FirstGen Celebration is more than a series of events. It reflects the courage and determination of students who are the first in their families to attend college—those who redefine possibility, reshape family narratives, and blaze new academic and professional paths. With the support of committed collaborators across campus, CSULB continues to cultivate an environment where first-generation students feel seen, supported, and celebrated—not only during this week, but all year long.
This year’s planning committee included cross-divisional collaboration from Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, highlighting the shared, campuswide commitment to uplifting first-gen voices. From career development to mental wellness, research showcases to campuswide celebrations, the week offered holistic support for students at every stage of their journey.
FirstGen Campus Celebration
Our signature campus celebration brought together students, faculty, and staff for an afternoon filled with music, backyard games, community connection, and a robust resource fair featuring support services from across campus. The event fostered pride, belonging, and joyful recognition of the first-gen identity—core values that define the first-gen experience at The Beach. Students were also provided with various swags, including an IAMFIRSTGEN tshirt, stickers, and totebags. First-gen faculty and staff also received IAMFIRSTGEN lapel pins, a symbol of visibility and allyship for students seeking mentors who share their journey.
Workshops & Programs Throughout the Week
Throughout the week, departments across campus hosted empowering workshops and sessions designed to support the academic, personal, and professional success of first-generation students.
Caring for Your Mental Health Amid Uncertainty
This wellness-centered session guided students through strategies for building resilience, managing stress, and caring for their mental wellbeing. It served as an important reminder that navigating challenges is a shared experience—and that support is always available.
Navigating Graduate School as a FirstGen Student
Led by current graduate students, this session provided clarity and encouragement to those considering advanced degrees. Students received practical advice on applications, funding, time management, and balancing academic goals with work and family responsibilities.
FirstGen Research Showcase
This inspiring showcase highlighted the contributions of first-generation undergraduate researchers across disciplines. Students presented their research, shared personal narratives, and reflected on their academic futures—demonstrating the profound impact first-generation scholars have on research, discovery, and innovation at CSULB.
FirstGen Networking
Networking can feel intimidating—especially for students navigating professional spaces without generational guidance. This interactive workshop created a welcoming environment for students to build confidence, strengthen communication skills, and explore how meaningful connections can lead to new opportunities.
FirstGen Finals De-Stress
This event created a welcoming space for first-gen students to unwind, connect, and support one another ahead of Finals Week. It offered an opportunity to decompress, share challenges, and build a sense of community during a typically stressful time.
A CSULB Campuswide Effort
This year’s celebration was led by the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP), with the FirstGen Celebration Planning Committee consisting of:
- Beach XP
- Career Development Center
- College of Natural Sciences & Mathematics
- GenExcel
- Housing & Residential Life
- Student Affairs Communications & Marketing
- McNair Scholars Program
- TRIO Student Support Services
Together, these partners helped create a week that honored the journeys and achievements of first generation students while reinforcing CSULB’s commitment to equity, access, and student success.
For more information on the Long Beach State University’s approach, please visit the Cal State University Long Beach page about First-Gen College Students.
