Celebrate First-Gen

National First-Gen Day celebrates first-generation students around the country! Held on November 8 every year, this day highlights the unique contributions and successes of first-gen students. At WSU, we use this day to support and elevate first-gen voices with panels, keynotes, networking events, lunches, and more.   

To learn more about National First-Gen Day and find nationwide events, visit the Center for First-Generation Student Success website. 

University Events

WSU Pullman

Kyle Funakoshi

Career and Leadership Series with Kyle Funakoshi
Kyle Funakoshi is a first-gen college student, former WSU Multicultural Student Services staff member, and current Chief Advancement Officer for the National Forest Foundation.

  • How to Get Into the C-Suite with Academic Success and Career Center: Nov 2 | Noon-1:30 | ASCC, Lighty 180 (Lounge)

  • How to Use Journalism in Any Career, with Murrow College of Communication: Nov 2 | 3-4 p.m. | Goertzen Hall 21

  • Forests, Public Lands, Environmental Equity, and Related Careers with CAHNRS and the School of the Environment: Nov. 2 | 4:30-6 p.m. | SPARK G10

  • Talk Stories, with APIDA Student Center: Nov 3 | Noon-1 p.m. | CUB 410

  • First-Generation Celebration Brunch: Nov 3 | 10-11:30 a.m. | CUB Junior Ballroom
    Celebrate First-Gen efforts at WSU and strengthen long-term investment in first-gen success.
    Open to all. RSVP to first@wsu.edu is appreciated.

  • First-Gen Pop-up Resource Fair and PB&J Club with College Success Programs: Nov 4 | Noon | CUB 1st Floor
    Interactive tabling, swag, and photo booth experience celebrating First-Gen at WSU. Explore tables and resources from TRIO SSS, TRIO SSS-Disability, Veterans SSS, Teacher Prep SSS, STEM SSS, Passport to College, First-Gen Study Abroad, First-Gen Student Center, NASPA Undergraduate Fellows Program (NUFP), and College Affordability Programs. Stop by the PB&J Club (the sandwiches go fast!), and then enjoy the Fair.

  • Study Abroad Student Stories: Nov 5 | Noon-1:30 p.m. | First-Gen Student Center, Lighty 260X
    Students share how First-Gen Abroad transformed their academic, personal, and professional trajectories.

  • First-Gen Research Showcase with McNair, Graduate School, and SACNAS: Nov 5 | 4-5 p.m. | First-Gen Student Center, Lighty 260X
    Featuring first-generation undergraduate and graduate research and staff research on the impacts of first-generation programming. Learn about the new Graduate Pathways program, where first-gen grad students mentor undergraduates interested in research.

  • First-Gen Fall Carnival with Carson EDGE: Nov 5 | 5:30-7 p.m. | CUE Atrium
    Join first-gen students for fall-themed games and snacks.

WSU Everett

  • Fueling First-Gen Success: Cupcakes, Advice & Resources
    Noon – 1 p.m. | Nov. 4 | First Floor Lobby
    Stop by for a sweet treat, discover resources available to first-generation students, and write a postcard with words of encouragement or advice for future first-gen Cougs.

WSU Tri-Cities

  • Souper Scholars: First-Gen Celebration
    8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Nov. 2 | TRIO
    Join us for a warm cup of noodles and community as we celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day. This event focuses on The Ingredients of Success, highlighting the people, resources, strengths, and support systems that contribute to student success. Connect with fellow TRIO Scholars, expand your network, and learn about resources that can help first-generation students thrive academically, personally, and professionally.

  • TRIO Tuesday: First-Gen Edition – Mindfulness & Self Care
    8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.  | Nov. 3 | TRIO
    TRIO Tuesday: First-Gen Edition offers a space to pause, recharge, and connect with fellow first-generation students. Join us for mindfulness activities, self-care strategies, and conversations focused on mental well-being. Together, we'll build resilience, reduce stress, and celebrate the strength and achievements of our first-generation community.

  • First Gen Abroad Taste of Spain
    4:30 – 6 p.m. | Nov. 4 | CIC 120 – RSVP Required
    Travel Advisors will share what to expect while living in Seville for 5 weeks and answer frequently asked questions about the application, funding, the courses and more!

  • Together We Rise: My First-Gen Story
    10 a.m. – noon | Nov. 6 | TRIO
    Together We Rise: My First-Gen Story event brings together students, faculty, and staff to recognize the impact of first-generation experiences and build connections across generations. Stop by to reflect on your own story, learn from others, and write a letter of encouragement to a first-generation high school student who may be preparing to take the same path. Honoring our stories. Inspiring the next generation. Together we rise.

  • First Gen Study Abroad Workshop & Paella
    1 – 2 p.m. | Nov. 13 | SUB 120
    This workshop will help you understand how to create a budget using your Financial Aid award, how to complete the study abroad application and how to add this experience to your co-curricular transcript and resume.
    Must RSVP: 1GA Workshop & Paella – Fill out form

WSU Vancouver

  • First Gen Week Kick Off!
    Nov. 9 | Undergraduate Building
    Drop in to pick up a First Gen pin and a schedule of events for the week

  • Date with a First Gen Author
    11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Nov. 10 | VUB 102
    Join TRIO SSS to pick up a book written by a first gen author! Enjoy some hot chocolate and write a letter of gratitude to someone on campus, TRIO will deliver the letter on your behalf!

  • First Gen Celebration
    11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Nov. 12 | VDEN 129
    Come celebrate our first-gen students, faculty and staff. Play first gen trivia, earn prizes, and hear from a panel of first gen alumni! Hosted by TRIO SSS and the First Gen Student Association.

  • Friendsgiving Dinner
    4 – 6 p.m. | Nov. 13 | Location TBD
    Come enjoy dinner and crafts with TRIO SSS.