UNK hosted its sixth annual First-Gen Festival in November. The festival allows first-generation students to connect and celebrate their accomplishments with one other.
This event helps first-generation students build a community.
“I learned that a lot of people in the room are in the same boat as me,” said Reyes Rivas, a first-gen freshman. “We are all first-generation students, and I have made great connections with them.”
According to the UNK website, 40% of UNK students are the first in their families to attend college. UNK offers a program for these students called First-Gen Trailblazer Academy.
UNK provides support throughout the year, including before the semester starts with the First-Gen Trailblazer Academy. This week-long program was designed to help first-generation college students get a head start before the fall semester begins.
Bingo was a big hit with the students this year. The tables were filled with students playing bingo, permanent bracelet making, food buffets and collecting swag items.
The event is meant to celebrate first-generation students but is not exclusive to them. Anyone is welcome to come to the First-Gen Festival and show their support.
“This festival brings the ‘Power of the Herd’ concept to life,” said Kyle Means, co-chair of UNK’s First-Generation Leadership Team. “We like to say that while one can be strong, together we are unstoppable. This festival represents the best of UNK. Supporting each other, celebrating success and inspiring future generations. It doesn’t get much better than that.”
The First-Gen Festival had vibrant energy with attendees’ laughter and smiles that filled the room. First-generation students found support with other students and with their shared experiences.
“I decided to come to this festival because I am a first-gen, so it’s nice to see other people who are first-gen as well and interact with them,” said Marlene Vargas, a first-gen freshman. “It makes me feel very proud to be a first gen student and it is not something a lot of people see so it is a big accomplishment.”
The First-Gen Festival captured the accomplishments and success of first-generation students.
