By: Ashley Rose
Staff-Writer
On Wednesday, Nov. 8, IU South Bend celebrated first-generation college students in Fireside A and B.
First-generation college students can be defined as students that are the first to attend before their parents or guardians. IU South Bend’s student population is 40.5% first-generation students according to fall 2023 enrollment numbers.
At this year’s first-generation celebration, students, supportive staff and volunteers gathered to celebrate students in various ways.
The Titan Success Center provided props and Polaroid cameras for students looking to take photos in celebration. ACE tutoring center tabled and provided highlighters, mini notebooks and small games to play. The Office of Student Life was giving out various IU South Bend swag including blow up volleyballs, Frisbees and fanny packs. In exchange for the spin of a wheel and asking one question about career advice, Career Services was giving out items including pen packs, tote bags, cutting boards and more. Other games and activities were provided by Titan Teams.
On top of support from campus organizations, delectable desserts and beverages were provided for attending students.
IU South Bend students Luz Flores and Jocelyn Morales are both first-generation college students who attended the event.
“As first-generation college students, we are paving the way for our future generations and making a difference. Just by showing up, we are proving to make a difference,” Flores said.
Morales continued the conversation, saying, “IU South Bend has a lot of diversity, so events like this makes us feel seen and heard. We don’t feel alone when being celebrated like this.”
