First-Generation Scholars Events
Weekly Events
Meditation Mondays
When: Mondays at 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Start your week with positive vibes at Meditation Mondays, offering two weekly sessions at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM at the First-Generation Center (SUB Lower Level). Meditation pillows and mats are provided, so just bring yourself and join us for a calming, centering experience to kick off your week mindfully.
What’s New Wednesdays
When: Wednesdays
Stop by the Center for First-Generation Scholars every Wednesday to discover what’s new—from financial aid and scholarships to internships, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming social events. It’s your weekly chance to stay in the loop on resources and opportunities that will enhance your college experience and support your academic journey.
First-Gen Fridays
When: Fridays at 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Come unwind at First-Gen Fridays, your weekly opportunity to connect with fellow scholars, play games, and enjoy free snacks at the First-Gen Center. Join us every Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM for a relaxing break filled with fun activities and great company.
Past Events
Author Reading with Jung Hae Chae
A conversation on what home means to immigrants and first-generation students. Jung Hae is an award-winning first-generation author currently working on her first book, Pojangmacha People. The event took place in the FDU Metropolitan Library. The audience included faculty, staff, and students.
FDU Center for First Generation Scholars ribbon-cutting ceremony
The event took place in Robison Hall on the Metropolitan Campus. The audience included faculty, staff, and students. President Avaltroni (also a first-generation scholar) and Provost Rifkin were also in attendance.
The Hispanic Center, First Gen Center, and PEAPS co-hosted an art exhibit in the Hispanic Center
The exhibit featured art and written works that focused on the meaning of home within the immigrant experience and how immigration impacts first-generation students within the context of bicultural existence.
A First-Gen Career Conversation with University Director of Career Development Rosa Santana
An inspiring talk with Rosa Santana on first-gen success, career growth, and networking. Students had the opportunity to ask questions and receive valuable information on the ins and outs of building their skills for networking and planning for their futures.
Fall ’24 Faculty and Staff panel conversation on how FDU professionals navigated life as first-generation students
Panelists included: Dr. Mutiara Mohamad, Director of PEAPS; Dr. Chadwin Sandifer, Executive Associate Dean and Chief Innovation Officer for FDU Health; Dr. Irene Oujo, Executive Director of the Hispanic Center; Dr. Chris Rasmussen, Deputy Chair of Social Science and History; and Vanessa Perez MPP, Director of Academic Affairs.
Feature in FDU Magazine Winter/Spring 25
Some statistics on our first-generation student population and what the newly established Center is doing to support them through college.
Bonus “Event”
Provost Rifkin with everyone’s favorite campus dog, Jerry, who can be found at the Center on Mondays and Thursdays during the semester.