By Ona Mather, Aquinas Reporter
Students attending the TRIO SSS event, taking a photo at OTONO’s – Photo by TRIO SSS instagram
This November, Aquinas College is celebrating First Generation Day, a national recognition honoring the determination and achievements of first-generation college students., The first-generation planning committee made up of programs including TRIO student support services, the Center for Diversity, Inclusion and Equity (CDI&E) and Admissions worked together to organize an event that would celebrate these students.
The event centered around recognizing the unique journeys of first-generation students as they begin to forge new paths through college. Students participated in the inventors’ guide escape room at the Ruse before heading next door to OTONO, an alumni owned cafe founded by Aquinas college graduate Emmanuel Ibarra. Students enjoyed pizza while reflecting on their own experiences and how an Aquinas alumnus built his business.
In addition to this event, the committee has launched a #CelebrateFirstGen campaign which highlights the stories from first-generation students, staff, faculty and alumni throughout November. These spotlights can be found on the @aquinas_sss and @aqdiversity social media pages. Aquinas is sharing these personal stories to inspire future Saints and showcase the impact everyone has on campus.
Students at the Ruse after the escape room – Photo by TRIO SSS instagram
These events create a meaningful sense of belonging and offer students opportunities to connect with others. Junior Olivia White shared how meaningful having this support can be, especially for those navigating college without family experience to guide them. White’s advice to first generation students is to “find a college that genuinely supports their needs and to never hesitate to ask questions.”
“Every department on campus is here to help,” said White. “If one office doesn’t know the answer, they can point you in the right direction.” She also encouraged families to ask questions, noting that parents want to feel confident that their child is in an environment where they will thrive.
Yesenia Bernal-Alcala, one of the coordinators of the First-Generation planning committee shared how personal this work is to her.
“Being first-generation means stepping into a world no one in your family has walked before,” said Bernal-Alcala. “It means choosing the path to your professional dreams and learning how to navigate it all. You create your own network, find your own mentors, and learn by doing. When you move forward, you open the path for everyone who comes after you.”
Students after they escaped the room- Photo by Jeanette Aldana
– Bernal-Alcala said, “the strengths first-generation students bring to campus include curiosity, resilience and a commitment to creating change.” For future first-generation students she said,“Dream big. Let college be the place where you start building the life you want. Let your goals guide your steps. Do not let finances, fear, or doubt make your world smaller. Use the resources on campus as fuel for your dreams.”
This year’s event was made by the First-Generation Committee and after gathering student feedback earlier this year they chose the escape room and dinner at OTONOs allowing students to have an experience based on reflection, community and possibility. The committee and this event want to ensure these students feel celebrated and have support as they forge their own paths.
The Saint 