Campus & Community

Campus Celebrates First-Generation Student Appreciation Week

Wednesday, April 14, 2021, By Gabrielle Lake

Defined by each student’s unique background, interests and dreams, their Becoming Orange journey, or the first year at the University supported by the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs, curates a strong foundation crafted to meet each student’s personalized goals.

One area of growing support and celebration surrounds that of first-generation students. The Orange community is invited to recognize and celebrate First-Generation Student Appreciation Week, Monday, April 19-Friday, April 23, 2021.

“The Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs, alongside the entire campus community, is honored to celebrate our first-generation students,” says Carrie Grogan Abbott, director of the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs. “Events during our appreciation week create a wonderful opportunity for first-generation students, faculty and staff to connect and build community.”

Being the first in a family or support system to go to college can be a challenging task. Further strengthening the transition to Syracuse University are the ’Cuse First Leaders, who as fellow first-generation students offer support through shared experiences, guidance and specialized events such as the ’Cuse First Pre-Welcome Program.

Offering additional insight as a ’Cuse First Leader and first-generation college student is Elliot Salas ’24. “It is crucial for first-generation students to recognize that they should be proud to be the first person in their family to attend college, especially one like Syracuse University. First-generation students have gone through various obstacles in life, and Syracuse University is the launchpad for their dreams to become reality.”

First-Generation Student Appreciation Week 2021
Through celebration, resource connections and continuing the spark of relationships with peers, staff and faculty throughout campus, all are invited to the week’s events.

For more information or to request accommodations, please contact the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs by emailing newtosu@syr.edu or by calling 315.443.9187.