.png)
At the heart of every first-generation college student’s journey is a story – one of ambition, resilience, and the courage to step into uncharted territory. Along the way, it may also lead to a moment of shared connection.
“Wait, they're first-gen too?!”
That’s a common thing to eavesdrop during First Gen Mixer that invites first-generation faculty, staff, and students to connect and celebrate wrapping up the first week of classes.
At Providence College, we’re excited to continue experiencing growth in our first-generation student population. 14% (nearly 670) of our undergraduate population identifies as first-generation, with the current class of 2028 representing the highest number of first-generation students in the last five years. 47% identify as students of color.
Established in 2017, our PC1G Initiative is dedicated to helping first-generation Friars find resources and connect with campus partners. Programming includes a new training opportunity for interested faculty and staff who wish to serve as PC1G Partners. In our first year, we’ve already trained over 40 campus partners. In my role, I also have the privilege of advising student leaders on monthly workshops through our PC Firsts student organization, which has grown from 8 to nearly 40 members in the past two years. We are soon gearing up to host one of my favorite events of the year - our annual spring Senior Celebration which honors our upcoming graduates and their families. Through these PC1G efforts, we hope to cultivate awareness, advocacy, and appreciation for an often invisible identity within our campus community.
With that in mind, I worked with students to expand our National First-Generation College Student Day celebration this past fall beyond a short tabling event. Our brainstorming led us to the curation of our first-ever first-generation exhibit.
Entitled "Through Their Eyes, In Their Own Words,” the exhibit highlighted the wisdom and lived experiences of first-generation students, faculty, and staff on campus. The exhibit was displayed in a central location on campus, the Center at Moore Hall, our cultural arts hub. It featured 25 portraits of first-generation community members alongside their written submissions that captured insights into their first-generation journey. Each portrait in the exhibit was more than just an image—it showcased a story of pride, vulnerability, and self-reflection.
Some students spoke about uplifting their families:
"I carry a responsibility, but also a pride. I’m here not just for myself but for my family, breaking barriers and setting a path for those who come after me in my family.” - Class of 2028 member
Others shared advice to fellow first-generation Friars:
“You do not have to face this path alone. It is more than acceptable to ask questions and seek assistance, as understanding the ins and outs of college life is part of the process. At the same time, trust your instincts and the values you've been raised with as they will guide you through difficulties.” - Class of 2026 member
Many reflected on their desire to give back to their community:
Being first-generation represents a deep reverence and gratitude to all those who have helped me get to where I am today. With this comes a great responsibility to give back to my community and a deep understanding that I am fortunate to be at an institution that has allowed me to cultivate virtues, professionalism, and skills that will assist me well after my time at PC.” - Class of 2025 member
The exhibit transformed a statistic into real, individual narratives that I hope resonated with the campus community. For first-gen students, seeing their peers’ faces and reading their words was a moment of validation—an affirmation that they are not alone on this journey. We hope the exhibit also served as a reminder of the strength embedded within the first-generation identity.
For more information on Providence College's approach, please visit their website here.
