What we do:
Through our programs and services we seek to support first-generation students to successfully transition into college life and provide opportunities for the academic and personal success of all our first-gen students on campus.
Who are First Gen Students?
First Generation college students are the students who identify as first in their family to graduate from college. Neither parent or guardian has completed a college degree.
At UW Tacoma 54% students are First-Generation.
A First Gen Student is:
- A student whose parent(s) or guardian(s) have not earned a bachelor’s degree.
- A student whose parent(s) or guardian(s) have attended but not completed any college.
- A student who, prior to the age of 18, regularly resided with and received support from only one parent and whose supporting parent did not complete a bachelor’s degree.
- A student who, prior to the age of 18, did not regularly reside with or receive support from a natural or adoptive parent.
Resources we offer:
- Welcoming space for student use
- Engagement and outreach opportunities
- Academic and professional development
UW Tacoma is recognized as a First-Gen Forward Institution. Follow the link below for more information about the First-Gen Forward recognition.
Workshops
Each quarter our office hosts a series of workshops that are designed to encourage academic and personal progress; foster the development of problem-solving skills and teach self-advocacy and personal responsibility.
These workshops are organized in collaboration with various units on campus like the Office of Global Affairs, University Academic Advising, Career Development & Education, Office of Student Financial Aid, Teaching and Learning Center, and the Counseling and Psychological Services.
This workshop series will focus on the following areas:
- Academic Skills
- Career Development
- Financial Wellness
Signature Events
Our signature events aims to provide opportunities for students to connect with various units on campus that provide services to first-gen students. The events foster campus engagement opportunities and community building and validation.
Our Signature Events celebrated annually:
National 1st Gen Celebration
National First-Generation Celebration
The National First Gen Celebration is on Nov. 8th. This event is meant to recognize the experience of first-generation students and their success in pursuing higher education. Not only is this day being acknowledged at UWT, but it is a nationally recognized event that will also be celebrated in many other educational institutions. During this event, we have speakers, lunch, free swags, commitment boards, a photo booth, and the reveal of the “We Are First Gen” of the year.
End of Year Celebration
First-Gen End of Year Celebration
Every Spring the office of First Generation Student Initiatives hosts an End of the Year Celebration where all First-gen graduating seniors are recognized for being the first in their families to graduate from college. As part of this recognition, the graduates receive a graduation stole representing First Gen Fellows. Traditionally a family member, a mentor, or a friend who has supported the graduating senior during their academic journey places the stole on the student during the celebration. Students are able to proudly wear their stole during the UW Tacoma Commencement ceremonies. This stole has the official emblem of the University of Washington and the First Gen Fellows emblem.
Watch the 2021 First Generation End of Year Celebration:
Breakfast for Finals
Breakfast for Finals
First Generation Student Initiatives sponsors a free breakfast for all students on the first day of Finals Week! This event provides an opportunity for students to connect with each other, take a study break, and prepare for their finals while sharing some food and study tips. It also serves as a way for faculty and staff to celebrate student’s achievements and show their support.
First Generation Fellows Cohort
First Generation Fellows is a program that provides individualized support to students who identify as first in their family to graduate from college. The program is designed for first generation sophomore and transfer students.
The cohort of students that are selected into the program benefit from various support programs, services, and extensive campus referral networks that help enrich their academic life. The students also participate in monthly Lunch and Learns with faculty and staff that focus on the themes of navigation, empowerment, and leadership. After completing their requirements cohort participants qualify for a $300 book scholarship.
Who can apply?
The First Gen Fellows cohort program is open to first-generation students who are classified as sophomore, and transfer students. Students can apply for the Autumn, Winter, and Spring cohorts.
Financial Wellness Fellows Cohort
The key goal for this program is to promote economic justice by increasing access to financial wellness for first-generation college students as well as students from minoritized backgrounds.
The Financial Wellness cohort program will teach students basic financial wellness skills such as budgeting, and also provide ongoing budget consultation support to the participants. At the completion of the program, students will be able to apply their knowledge of financial wellness strategies to everyday life situations. The student participants will also earn up to a $300 book scholarship.
The Financial Wellness Cohort is a collaboration with the Center for Equity and Inclusion, Office of Student Financial Aid, Office of Student Advocacy and Support, and Sound Outreach.
Who can apply?
- The Financial Wellness cohort program is open to UW Tacoma first generation college students as well as students from minoritized backgrounds who are interested in learning about financial wellness resources.
- The students can apply for the Winter, and Spring cohort.
Peer Success Mentors
The Peer Success Mentors are available to guide their peers toward academic success through one-on-one appointments to discuss study habits, set academic goals, and develop effective learning strategies. These student leaders have participated in the NASPA's Certified Peer Educator (CPE) Training Program.
Komisi Petelo
arrow_drop_down_circle Komisi Petelo
Peer Success Mentor
Komisi is a first-generation college student, who majors in Computer Science and is lactose intolerant. In his spare time he loves shopping at American Eagle, jogging around Tacoma, and playing the Bass Clarinet. When he is not studying, he is either ordering Subway near UW Tacoma, working with horses at Ocean Shores, or shopping at Walgreens on 38th Street.
Click to Watch Komisi's Video Bio
Peer Success Mentors Are Trained To:
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offer one-on-one or group coaching to help first gen students and their peers discuss study habits, set academic goals, and develop effective learning strategies
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serve as motivational partners
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provide information about other resources on campus
Mentors Are Not Trained To:
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provide tutoring
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provide academic advising
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provide instruction
We Are First Gen Campaign
The “We Are First Generation” poster campaign features voices of First Generation College students, staff, faculty, and alumni at UW Tacoma.
Through this campaign we seek to:
- Highlight faculty, staff, and students who are first-generation
- Share the experiences and strengths they contribute to our institution
- Develop a sense of community amongst First-Generation Students
- Connect First Generation students with First Generation faculty and staff on our campus
NATIONAL FIRST GENERATION COLLEGE CELEBRATION
The University of Washington Tacoma recognizes the experience of first-generation students and their success in pursuing higher education. Every year, November 8th is acknowledged at UW Tacoma and nationally to celebrate the success of first-generation college students, faculty, and staff. #CelebrateFirstGen #FirstGenUWTacoma
This celebration is a tri-campus collaboration between the University of Washington Seattle, Bothell, and Tacoma.
Events & Activities Engagement opportunities associated with the National First-Generation College Celebration will take place across the three UW campuses.
