For students who are the first in their families to navigate higher education, reaching medical school represents more than an individual accomplishment. It is a testament to their determination and perseverance, and a reflection of the unique strengths they bring to the field of medicine.
Recognizing these achievements is at the heart of National First-Generation College Student Day, observed each year on November 8 to celebrate students who are the first in their families to pursue and earn a college degree.
For the second consecutive year, the Heersink School of Medicine joined in the national celebration, bringing together medical students, residents, and school leaders on November 5 for an evening of recognition and connection. The event welcomed students who are the first in their families to pursue higher education, as well as those who are the first to attend medical school.
Building connections beyond the classroom
Raegan Durant, M.D., associate dean for Access & Engagement, and Raneisha Lee, MS2, president of First Gen Med, opened the celebration with remarks about the importance of recognizing students' achievements, the experiences that have shaped their journeys, and resources available to students.
Durant highlighted the Office of Access & Engagement’s commitment to fostering a supportive school community, building meaningful connections, and promoting academic and professional growth.
“We want you to know that our office is here for you,” Durant said to students. “We want to see you succeed, and we are committed to helping make your experience at Heersink a positive and rewarding one.”
Dale Colorado, D.O., MPH, assistant dean for Student Experience, also highlighted the Medical Student Experience office as a resource for students. Led by Colorado, the office is a familiar gathering place where students regularly study, spend time together, and connect with staff.
Throughout the evening, students and school leaders participated in activities designed to encourage conversation and help attendees get to know one another. Colorado guided students through Story Sparks, a card game which prompted them to share personal stories, family traditions, and hopes for the future of medicine. Both Colorado and Durant participated alongside students, sharing their own experiences and giving attendees an opportunity to know them beyond their leadership roles.
During the second activity, Connections Bingo, students moved around the room searching for classmates who matched descriptions on their bingo cards, from growing up in a small town to speaking multiple languages or having a favorite comfort show. Conversations sparked over shared family recipes and the movies and shows students turn to when they need to unwind.
The activity brought plenty of excitement as students raced to complete their cards, with winners celebrating prizes ranging from gift baskets filled with student essentials to tickets for performances at UAB's Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center.
For Ascia Brown, MS2, the evening reinforced the value of connecting with others who understand the first-generation experience.
“I enjoyed fellowshipping with the first-generation student community,” Brown said. “It made me even more grateful to be a first-generation medical student. It gave me an opportunity to connect with others who share similar experiences and understand the unique journey that comes with being First-Gen.”
For Megha Ghanta, MS2, the celebration also offered a new perspective on her classmates' accomplishments and the broader significance of their journeys.
“It was beautiful to see different generations of first-generation students come together and celebrate their journeys,” Ghanta said. “Seeing that so many of my classmates are first-generation students gave me a newfound respect for all they have overcome to get here. It also reminded me that their achievements have opened new doors for their family members and for those who will come after them.”
Supporting the next generation
The relationships fostered during the celebration continue through First Gen Med, a student-led organization founded by Heersink medical students. Through events and mentorship opportunities, the group connects students with peers, residents, and faculty who can offer guidance and share their experiences.
This semester, the organization has hosted Lunch and Learns covering topics such as managing finances during medical school and navigating a career in medicine, including a discussion with a first-generation physician about his journey into sports medicine.
First Gen Med welcomes all medical students interested in participating or offering support, while leadership positions are reserved for students who meet the formal definition of a first-generation college student. Those interested in getting involved can follow the organization's Instagram page, @fgm_uab, for updates on upcoming opportunities.
As president of First Gen Med, Lee encouraged students to embrace their backgrounds and recognize the strengths that have shaped their journeys.
“Your failures do not define you, and your background is not a disadvantage. It is your superpower,” she said.
Click here to view the full photo album from the celebration.