LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is proud to celebrate National First-Generation College Student Week, taking place November 3 – 7, by recognizing the resilience, pride, and accomplishments of the College’s first-generation students, staff and faculty.
Throughout the week, CoSW will share stories from our community who proudly identify as first-generation, spotlighting the unique paths that lead to and through higher education.
“Being the first in your family to pursue higher education is a powerful act of courage and transformation,” said Dr. Sam Bryant, Director of Recruitment and Digital Strategies and a proud first-generation graduate. “At CoSW, we want our students to know that they belong here, they’re celebrated here, and their journeys matter.”
The CoSW will also host a First-Gen Fiesta on Tuesday, November 4, from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m EST. On-campus students are invited to drop in, grab lunch, connect with other first-generation students, and pick up exclusive CoSW swag, including “I Am the First” lapel pins. CoSW online first-generation students are encouraged to email Dr. Sam Bryant to request a lapel pin be shipped to their address.
The College will also host the inaugural MSW First-Gen Round-Up, an online event specifically designed for first-generation graduate students. Led by MSW Program Director Dr. Amanda Brown, this interactive session will provide a space for connection, encouragement, and shared strategies for navigating graduate school. Participants will connect with first-gen faculty, gain valuable tips on the non-academic aspects of graduate school, and hear directly from a panel of first-gen MSW students about their experiences and challenges. Together, attendees will build community and explore resources to help them thrive on their path to graduation.
The week’s events aim to build connection and visibility across the UK community and highlight the vital role that first-generation students play in the College’s mission to improve the human condition, while also showcasing the strong support systems and communities in place to help them thrive at the College of Social Work.
Students are encouraged to follow @UKCoSW on social media for celebration highlights and to join the conversation using #IAmFirst and #UKFirstGen.
