Are you the first person in your family to attend college? If so, here’s an event tailored just for you. And it includes free lunch!

The Marriott Library, in partnership with many groups on the University of Utah campus, is hosting a First Gen-Con to help you connect with other students, as well as meet staff and faculty who can help. This is your chance to tell your story and learn from others.

According to Lis Pankl, Head of Graduate and Undergraduate Services at the Marriott Library, “This event is designed to make a space for first gen students to share stories and build community, as well as learn about university resources available to them.

Linda Paternina Serrano, Program Director of the University of Utah Beacon Scholars, and Emilio Manual Camu, Adviser for Beacon Scholars, M.Ed. Educational Leadership and Policy student, will be featured as keynote speakers. 

Meet Nicole, a First-gen Graduate & Librarian
Here to Help

I was the first in my family to attend undergraduate or graduate school. My parents did not want me to attend college – they thought I should get a job in our small town and stay there. I ended up going to college a semester late, so right away I felt like an outsider. I had a few embarrassing moments and a lot of adjustments to make regarding how I thought about myself as a student, especially after I received a “C” on my first writing assignment. Going to graduate school as a first-gen was a challenge because of the different culture of graduate school. It took me a long time to feel confident about myself and my work, but eventually I ended up getting two master’s degrees and a PhD.

My experience helps me relate to students who come from a similar background. I think it’s important to find people who know what it’s like to be a first-gen and who can offer support and advice, so I’m really excited about First Gen Con. I encourage any first-gen students to visit me (1726B Marriott Library) for academic support or just to chat. I want to make sure our first-gen students know that they’re not alone and that there are people here at the university who are dedicated to helping them succeed.