This November, Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) proudly celebrated its first-generation college students and allies during the annual First-Generation College Celebration. As part of the national initiative, PHSC aimed to shine a spotlight on the unique challenges, accomplishments, and contributions of its first-gen community while fostering a culture of support and inclusivity.
Pasco-Hernando State College is grateful for TIAA and the Strada Education Foundation’s generous sponsorship of the First-Generation College Celebration. The #CelebrateFirstGen grant equipped us with the resources to move #FirstGenForward by raising awareness of first-gen college students’ identities, strengths, and experiences. Their support helped PHSC create a memorable and impactful month of activities designed to inspire, educate, and connect first-gen students with the resources and networks central to success.
The celebration kicked off at the West Campus in New Port Richey with the session “I Am a First-Generation College Student.” This engaging discussion featured a first-gen professor sharing their journey and triumphs, providing personal insights, resources, and community support to empower first-gen students. Sessions like these underscored the importance of shared experiences in creating a sense of belonging and motivation among attendees.
Throughout the month, faculty and staff played an essential role in amplifying the celebration’s impact. Engaging sessions were thoughtfully designed to address first-gen students’ unique challenges, ranging from mental health to academic support. For example, “Being S.A.D: Stress, Anxiety, and Depression” provided students with practical strategies to manage mental fatigue, a common experience for those navigating the complexities of college as the first in their families. The session “Exploring Your Academic Future with Faculty” encouraged students to network with professors, unlocking opportunities for internships and academic growth, while “No Dumb Questions: How the Library Can Help You Succeed” highlighted the role of librarians and library resources in supporting students’ success.
At the Spring Hill Campus, the focus shifted to emotional well-being and self-care. The session “Self-Care and Emotional Wellness” encouraged students to prioritize their mental health and offered tools for managing stress and modeling healthy habits. The celebration concluded with the First-Gen Success Panel, a session where faculty and staff shared their stories, advice, and encouragement to inspire first-generation students and provide guidance for overcoming personal and academic hurdles.
PHSC further fostered a sense of community by distributing badge ribbons for faculty and staff with messages such as “I Support First-Gen Students” or “I Am First Gen.” Students received buttons featuring the “Bobcat First” logo, serving as symbols of pride and belonging. Additionally, free food at every session created a welcoming and inclusive environment that emphasized the college’s commitment to supporting its students both academically and personally.
The month-long celebration was a powerful reminder of how First-generation students contribute significantly to the success of PHSC. It showcased the collective effort needed to support these students and the unique perspectives and strengths they bring to the college community. This celebration emphasized PHSC’s dedication to creating an environment where first-gen students feel seen, supported, and empowered to achieve their goals.
For more information on Pasco-Hernando State College's approach, please visit their website here.
