First Generation
South Mountain Community College welcomes all first-generation students as part of the Cougar family!
A first-generation college student is defined as a student whose parent(s)/legal guardian(s) did not graduate from college. This means that you are the first person in your family to attend college to attain a degree.
We celebrate your achievement and effort towards pursuing your higher education goals!
Career Services & Student Life and Leadership Present:
National First-Generation and College Success Week
Come get the skills you need to succeed as a first gen student, both academically, personally, and professionally! Join us for a week of exciting events and ways to engage on campus! Our hope is to amplify student voices by fostering first-generation visibility, creating a community of support and highlighting holistic ways to engage as a student on campus.
Did You Know? As of 2020, 54% of undergraduates in the United States had parents who did not have a bachelor’s degree, and 60% of those students were also the first sibling in their family to go to college (NASPA). At SMCC, nearly 70% of students are first-gen!
Events and Activities:
Monday, November 4
Posting of Colors Ceremony
Flag placement presented by Veterans Services.
9:30 am-10 am | North Entrance Flagpole (SES)
First Gen 101
Come learn how to maximize this week! • Must attend this event to sign up for Dress for Success (free professional attire).
Noon - 2pm | SES 127
Tuesday, November 5
The Amazing Race Around SMCC
Team up for an amazing race around SMCC!
Start Time: 9 am | 1ST stop: The Student Union
Wednesday, November 6
Community and Resource Fair
Connect with campus resources, local organizations, and support services!
10 am - 1 pm | LRC Patio
Thursday, November 7
Dress for Success
The Dress for Success mobile unit will be providing professional attire!
Noon - 3 pm | South Parking Lot
Friday, November 8
“First But Not Last” Career Conference (RSVP Encouraged) - We encourage you to come dressed in your business attire too!
Get game changing info during our interactive sessions, plus a panel discussion featuring high level professionals from industries including Business, Tech, Engineering, Education and Law who have successfully navigated their own education and career journeys as first-generation college students.
12:30 pm - 4:30 pm | Student Union 100
First Gen Family Appreciation Dinner (RSVP Required)
A celebration dinner for first-generation students and their families!
5:30 pm - 7 pm | Facilities Square
What You Will Gain:
- Intentional connection with fellow first generation students and professionals
- First gen and Career Services SWAG!
- Extra Credit! (we can verify attendance if your professor approves; workshops are already pre-approved for Honors Co-Curricular activities)