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National First-Generation College Celebration Day

In 2021, Senator Raphael Warnock from Georgia introduced a bipartisan resolution in support to designate November 8 as National First-Generation College Celebration Day. The resolution passed on November 30, 2021. Each year, UAB stives to add to the tradition of celebrating First-gen Blazers—showcasing our first-generation Blazers’ stories of success, sacrifice, resilience, and change and highlighting their dynamic contributions to our campus and higher education.

Below, you will find a full schedule of the week’s events.

  • First-Gen Book Collection & Display
    Sponsored by UAB Libraries
    Sterne Library
    In collaboration with campus librarians, explore a curated collection of books highlighting first-gen success tips, stories featuring first-gen characters, and works by first-gen authors.

  • First Gen Celebration Tailgate | UAB vs. Charlotte | Time TBA
    Let's celebrate First-Gen Week and Blazer football! Join us outside Protective Stadium before the UAB vs. Charlotte game for food, fun, and First-Gen pride. First-generation students are encouraged to attend, and everyone is welcome to join the celebration before kickoff. Wear your green and gold and get ready to cheer on the Blazers!

  • First Gen Resource Fair | HSC Ballrooms | 11AM-1PM
    Celebrate First-Generation College Celebration Week by connecting with campus offices and learning about resources available to you! Stop by the First-Gen Opportunity Fair to explore opportunities, services, and support from across UAB. This event is open to all UAB students, first-gen or not!

    Step Into First Gen Week | Campus Green | 6PM - 8PM
    Kickoff First-Generation College Celebration Week with an evening of food, music, and celebration! Join fellow Blazers on the Campus Green for a fun-filled night featuring a DJ, free food, and opportunities to connect with the UAB community as we celebrate our First-Gen students and their achievements. All UAB students are welcome to attend!

  • First Gen Faculty, Staff, and Student Luncheon | 11:30 AM-1:00 PM
    Sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs
    Hill Student Center Ballrooms

    Join fellow first-gen Blazers for food, networking, and shared stories of success. This year’s luncheon will feature a first-generation keynote speaker.
    *RSVP required for this event

    Blazer Wellness Jeopardy | 2PM - 3PM | HSC 204/206
    Put your knowledge to the test at Blazer Wellness Jeopardy! Join Wellness Promotion at UAB for an interactive game highlighting topics related to health, well-being, and campus wellness resources. Compete for prizes, learn helpful tips, and discover ways to support your overall wellness while at UAB. Open to all UAB students!

  • Coffee with the Colleges | HSC Performance Lounge | 11AM-3PM
    Grab a cup of coffee, enjoy a pastry, and connect with faculty and representatives from colleges across UAB! In partnership with First Year Experience, this informal networking event gives students the opportunity to learn more about academic programs, explore areas of interest, and build connections with campus faculty.

    Throughout the day, colleges will rotate through themed blocks, including health professions, business, and more. Conversation starter cards will be available to help students ask questions, gain insight into different fields, and learn about opportunities within each college.

    More details and the college schedule coming soon!
    Open to all UAB students.

  • Get Hired! | HSC 1st Floor | 11AM-1:30PM
    Looking for your next opportunity? Whether you need a part-time job this semester, an internship to build your résumé, or a full-time position after graduation, Get Hired! is your chance to connect with employers actively hiring UAB students.

    This casual, drop-in hiring event brings employers to one of the busiest locations on campus, making it easy to stop by between classes or during lunch. Employers from a variety of industries will be recruiting students from all majors for positions ranging from on-campus employment and internships to entry-level professional roles.
    Open to all UAB students.

    Grad School 101 | HSC 203 | 12PM-1PM
    Thinking about grad school but not sure where to start? Join us for a fun, interactive session where we’ll break it down.

    More details coming soon. Stay tuned!
    Open to all UAB students.

    Blazers Abroad 101 | HSC 311 | 3PM-4PM
    Have you ever considered studying abroad but aren't sure where to start? Join us for Blazers Abroad 101, a special session designed for first-generation students interested in exploring global learning opportunities. Learn about study abroad programs, scholarships, financial considerations, and resources available to help make international experiences accessible and achievable.

    Whether you're just beginning to explore the idea or ready to start planning, this session will help you take the first step toward your global journey.
    Open to all UAB students.

    LYTES W/ SYTE | Details TBD
    Join the Second Year and Transfer Experience (SYTE) team for an evening of connection, community, and fun! LYTES with SYTE is a chance to meet fellow students, engage with campus life, and enjoy a memorable experience designed with second-year and transfer students in mind.
    Open to all UAB students.

  • Relax & Unwind with Student Counseling 11AM-1PM | Performance Lounge
    Take a break and invest in your well-being during this relaxing, hands-on experience hosted by UAB Student Counseling Services. Participants will create their own sugar scrub while learning practical strategies for managing stress, prioritizing self-care, and supporting overall wellness. Whether you're looking to recharge, connect with others, or simply enjoy a relaxing activity, this event offers a welcoming space to pause and unwind.
    Open to all UAB students.

    Tri Alpha Induction Ceremony | HSC Ballrooms | 3PM-5PM
    Celebrate the newest members of UAB's Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) chapter as we welcome the third class of inductees into the national honor society for first-generation college students. The ceremony will honor their accomplishments and mark the beginning of their continued leadership and engagement within the first-generation community.
    This event is reserved for inductees and their invited guests.

  • First Gen Gives Back Day of Service | Multiple Locations | 8AM-12PM
    Celebrate the spirit of service during National First-Generation College Celebration Week by giving back to the Birmingham community. Join fellow Blazers for a morning of meaningful service at community partner sites across the city and make a positive impact alongside other students, faculty, and staff.

    Whether you're passionate about community engagement, looking to meet new people, or simply want to make a difference, there is a service opportunity for everyone.

    More details coming soon. Stay tuned!
    Open to all UAB students.

 

Join us and the many universities and colleges celebrating National First-Generation College Celebration Day across the nation. See you the week of November 8th!

 

First Generation College Celebration