The W celebrates First-Gen Week
Mississippi University for Women is gearing up to celebrate first generation students during First-Gen Week, Nov. 2-6. A first-gen student is a student whose parents or guardian did not complete a bachelor’s degree.
“This year’s theme for first gen week is ‘Mission First Gen: Boldly Go,’” said Dr. Clear Moore, director of the Student Success Center at The W. “It perfectly captures the spirit of trailblazing that first-gen students represent for their family. They may be the first to attend college, but they won’t be the last. They are paving the way and learning the ropes so that they can help lift others to reach their goals.”
Festivities kicked off Monday, Nov. 2 with pancakes and hot chocolate on the porch of Reneau Hall, and closed with Career Bingo in The Nest.
Tuesday’s events begin at 11 a.m. with the Financial Rocket Fuel Table at the Hogarth Cafeteria. Then there will be a Resume Glow-Up event from 1-3 p.m. in the 24/7 Lab in Fant Memorial Library.
Wednesday offers a Slime & Unwind event from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in The Nest and a Networking and Interviewing Career Center from 2-4 p.m. in Whitfield Hall.
Thursday will feature a full slate of events, beginning with Career Exploration Brackets from noon-2 p.m. in the Stark Recreation Atrium. Next will be the Stellar Senior Celebration from 4-5 p.m. in Kossen Auditorium in Poindexter Hall. The day will close out with a pickleball tournament from 5-7 p.m. in Stark Recreation.
The celebration concludes on Friday with Movie Matinee at 2:30 p.m. in the Tiered Classroom in Fant Library. The movie being shown is Hidden Figures, and free popcorn and snacks will be provided.
First-gen students play a large role in planning and conducting the week’s events through the First-Gen Ambassadors and Lowndes FYRST Leaders, sponsored by a grant from the Rotary Club of Columbus.
The celebration is part of a larger effort by The W to focus on first-gen students, making sure they are successful in their endeavor to earn a degree.
“Our planned festivities reflect true partnerships across campus as many departments have stepped up to sponsor activities during the week,” Moore said. “The activities are designed to foster connection with peers and professionals so that first-gen students know they are not alone.”