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

Jung Hae Chae speaking at an author reading event at FDU Metropolitan Library.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

Three people, including President Avaltroni and Provost Rifkin, cut a ribbon at Fairleigh Dickinson University.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

Attendees view art related to the immigrant experience at an 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

Rosa Santana speaking to students at an FDU First-Gen event about success, career growth and networking.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 campus dog Jerry, who visits the Center on Mondays and Thursdays.Provost Rifkin with everyone’s favorite campus dog, Jerry, who can be found at the Center on Mondays and Thursdays during the semester.