First-Generation Celebration

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Celebrating First-Generation Students

In the words of TC faculty member and fellow first-gen student Dr. Carmen Martínez-Roldán, first-generation college students inspire us “to keep reimagining new ways to honor a diversity of voices and experiences.”

We are so pleased that TC is celebrating the impact and experience of our first-gen community and their deep commitment to learning.

Join Us For Our First Gen Week Celebration!

In honor of the many students within the Teachers College community whose hard work and resilience have led them to be the first in their families to attend college or graduate school, TC has planned a week-long celebration beginning Monday, November 6, 2023.


Monday, November 6, 2023

First Gen Corner: My Becoming Journey

Monday, November 6, 2023 at 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Location: Everett Lounge Tabling

Delve into the unique experiences and stories of first-generation students as they navigate the intricate tapestry of identity, sense of belonging and success in grad school. Join TC in celebrating the resilience, ambition, and the unbreakable spirit of those who have charted their own paths in unfamiliar terrain by leaving encouraging notes for your First Gen friends.

Monday, November 6, 2023

TC Community Lunch

Monday, November 6, 2023 at 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm

Location: Grace Dodge Hall 179

This kick-off event of First Gen Celebration Week at TC is to bring people together, build community, and create a sense of belonging. Due to the intimate nature of the community lunch, this event is lottery based.

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

First Gen: A Day in the Life of A First Gen Student

Tuesday, November 7, 2023

Location: Virtual - Instagram Stories (@tc_gradlife)

What is it like to be a First Gen student? What does a day in the life of a First Gen look like? First Gen students will takeover GSLD’s Instagram account to tell their stories.

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Cookies and Conversations

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Location: GSLD Suit 155 Building 528

“Cookies and Conversations” is a space for sharing stories, gaining insights, and building a supportive network for First Gen students at TC. Discover resources for First Gen students, discuss your experience with GSLD staff and bond with others over cookies.

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

Headshots and Hors D’oeuvres

Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Location: Grace Dodge 177/179

Sign up in advance for this TC NEXT event: Headshots & Hors D’oeuvres. Snack with us, and get your free professional photo taken for LinkedIn, as well as an on-the-fly LinkedIn Review, and an answer for any of your other quick career-related questions. Time slots are limited!

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Demystifying the IRB

Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm

Location: Horace Mann 142

Let’s demystify the Institutional Review Board process! The first hour will be a presentation that covers the importance of the IRB in research, protocol submission tips, and the criteria for IRB review and approval.

Friday, November 10, 2023

Doctoral Application Process

Friday, November 10, 2023 at 11:00 am to 12:30 pm

Location: Grace Dodge Hall 179

Interested in pursuing a doctorate degree and need guidance on where to start? Be sure to join the Doctoral Application Process event, happening on Friday, November 10th, 2023 from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Grace Dodge Hall - Room 179, for the opportunity to get a breakdown of the doctoral application process, learn more about what life is like for a current doctoral student, and get application preparation tips. This event is sponsored by Teachers College Admissions, TC Next, and Graduate Student Life and Development.

Student/Alumni Stories


Support First-Generation Students

First-generation students are trailblazers who bring unique and diverse perspectives to our community and carry forward our legacy of equity and inclusion.  Support them today with a gift to Teachers College.

TC First Generation Celebration at Convocation 2019

Faculty Stories


First generation students applaud at graduation

Past Ceremonies

An annual tradition of TC's Convocation, watch our recent Diversity & First-Generation Celebration ceremonies:

Read the Diversity & First-Generation Celebration Letters

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