By AALIYAH FLORES/Staff Writer
National First Generation Day celebrates and honors students who are the first in their families to graduate from college. Despite the various challenges and obstacles these students may face, they pave the way. They do it not only for the future generations in their family but also for other First-Gen Students!
On Nov. 8, the University of Texas at Tyler and many of it’s organizations celebrated by hosting events Friday afternoon. The organizations include UT Tyler’s Office of Academic Success, First-Gen Patriots, Hispanic Student Association, Black Student Association, American Chemical Society, Woman in Math & Science and AMSA Pre-Medical Chapter
We had the opportunity to meet and speak with UT Tyler’s Associate Provost for Academic Success and Dean of Undergraduate Studies Colleen Swain.
“November 8 is always a special day, as it is National First Generation Student Day!” said Swain. “Our first-generation students are not only brave but strivers—they see that earning a bachelor’s degree holds the promise of self-transformation and the possibility of transforming your life circumstances for current and future generations of their families.”
Dr. Swain also shared valuable resources and information regarding all the UT does to support First-Gen Students.
“UT Tyler has different programming, resources, and support for our first-generation students,” said Swain. “We also have an active first-generation student organization—First Generation Patriots. If you’d like help connecting with our first-generation students, please email us at or come up to the 4th floor of the Library. We’re here to help you accomplish your goal of earning a bachelor’s degree.”
For more details and information, check out UT Tyler’s Academic Success Services to find helpful resources!
