SAN LUIS OBISPO – Cuesta College celebrates its third annual First-Generation College Celebration Week and host events on Nov. 4 and 5. The events intends to honor and support students who are the first in their families to attend college, while highlighting their unique stories and the existing resources that position them for success.
First-generation college students make up the largest disproportionately impacted group in higher education. Cuesta College continues to expand resources, build awareness, and recognize the achievements of first-generation students to help them thrive in their academic and personal goals.
Elias Campos, a former ESL and GED student and current Cuesta Promise recipient shared, “At first, I doubted myself, but what helped me was taking a noncredit class prior to my full-time semester. This allowed me to get back into the groove of taking notes, working with others, and developing suitable work habits to prepare for a full-time class load.”
Colleges and universities across the country began honoring First-Generation College Celebration Day in 2017 to mark the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which increased access to higher education for underrepresented groups.
“Being the first in your family to attend college takes courage, determination, and hope,” said Dean of Student Success and Support Programs Mia Ruiz. “We proudly celebrate our first-generation students and their accomplishments. Their journeys inspire our campus community and demonstrate the transformative power of higher education.”
Cuesta College invites students, employees, and community members to join the celebration at both campuses:
North County Campus
- Location: Schwartz Learning Resource Center, N3100
- Date: Tuesday, Nov. 4
- Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
- Student Spotlight Panel: 6-7 p.m.
- Snacks and refreshments provided
San Luis Obispo Campus
- Location: Affinity Programs Center, Room 3200
- Date: Wednesday, Nov. 5
- Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
- Student Spotlight Panel: 6-7 p.m.
- Snacks and refreshments provided
For more information about the national First-Generation College Celebration, visit firstgenforward.org. For questions and details about Cuesta College’s First-Generation College Celebration events, please contact Michaela McLaughlin at michaela_mclaughlin@cuesta.edu.