First Generation Islanders


Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi proudly supports the experiences of first-generation students. A first-generation college student is defined as a student whose parents did not complete a 4-year college or university degree. TAMU-CC will be joining colleges and universities throughout the nation to participate in the National First-Generation College Celebration. Led by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the NASPA Center for First-Generation Student Success, the day is intended to celebrate the success and presence of first-generation college students, faculty, and staff on campuses across the country. November 8 was identified as the date by COE for the annual National First-Generation College Celebration in order to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

TAMU-CC will host a variety of events from Monday, November 7, through Friday, November 11, in observance of National First-Gen Week. The goal of the events is to promote community for present and future first-generation Islanders.

Monday, Nov. 7

First-Gen Week Kickoff - 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Tejas Lounge

Join us for a T-Shirt Giveaway in the University Center, Tejas Lounge. First 200 students will receive a shirt. Shirts are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

"What's Being First Got To Do With It?" Workshop 12:00 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Bayview room 320

Workshop for students with the University Counseling Center from noon to 1:15 p.m. in the University Center, Bayview room 320. The event includes giveaways.

Tuesday, Nov. 8

Get Out & Vote - 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Natural Resources Center (NRC) Rm. 1003

The Student Government Association (SGA) will be giving cart rides from the University Center to the NRC to help you exercise your right to vote. Cart rides will be from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and will be departing from the University Center Roundabout Drive on the west side of the building near Jellyfish parking lot. FMI contact sga.president@tamucc.edu.

Wednesday, Nov. 9

First Gen Panel - Noon to 1:15 p.m. Mixer following 1:15p.m. to 1:45 p.m.
UC Lonestar C

First-Gen Panel of students, faculty, and staff discussing the experience of being a first-generation college student. The panel starts at noon in the University Center, Lonestar Ballroom C, with a mixer to follow. The event includes refreshment and the opportunity to win one of two $250 Campus Store gift cards.

Thursday, Nov. 10

FAFSA Pizza Party - 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
CCH 209

Join the Office of Student Financial Assistance in renewing your 2023-2024 FAFSA and get free pizza just for stopping by! Texas A&M-Corpus Christi awarded $130 million dollars in assistance last year so stop on by to get a piece of that pizza pie! This event will take place from 2-4 p.m. in Corpus Christi Hall, room 209. The event includes a drawing for 2 scholarship giveaways. Students will need to bring their 2021 student and parent tax returns, 2021 student and parent W2s, and student and parent FSA IDs. For more information, visit ofsa.tamucc.edu

"What's Being First Got To Do With It?" - 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
BH 207
Workshop for faculty and staff with the University Counseling Center

Friday, Nov. 11

Islanders Men's Basketball vs. UTSA - 7:00 p.m.
Dugan Wellness Center

Islanders Men's Basketball vs. UTSA 7 p.m. in Dugan Wellness Center. First-gen faculty/staff and students will be recognized at the game. Students can enjoy free admission with Sanddollar$ card. Faculty/staff tickets are $10 at the doors. Guest tickets are $12.