The University of Maine at Fort Kent TRIO/ Student Support Services held its First-Generation Celebration Week from Monday, November 4th through Friday, November 8th.
Being a first-gen student means that your parent (s) did not complete a four-year college. Being a first-generation student often comes with unique challenges, such as navigating the complexities of higher education, including financial aid, academic expectations, and campus resources, without having parents who have gone through the process. UMFK supports programs like TRIO, providing resources to help first-generation students achieve academic and personal success.
In a letter to campus, UMFK President Deb Hedeen said, “I am proud to be a first-generation student. I have so much gratitude that I have had the opportunity to advance my education which has led to a very rich and meaningful career in higher education. Congratulations to the first-generation students who are students, faculty, and staff on our campus.”
UMFK celebrated the success of first-generation college students by hosting various events during the week. Nikki Vachon, a college access counselor at the Finance Authority of Maine (FAME), was on campus to assist students with their FAFSA and all the FAFSA changes. There was a panel of First-Gen staff, alumni, and students who shared their college experiences from challenges and triumphs with current first-gen students.
“TRIO directed a First-Gen Week initiative to deepen the understanding among UMFK staff, faculty, and students. This included a series of engaging activities, along with a personal letter from UMFK President Deb Hedeen, sharing insights on what it means to be a first-generation student,” said Susan Dubay, director of Student Support Services and TRIO. “These activities involved informational sessions, financial literacy, and all the resources that TRIO has for these students at UMFK in order to thrive, succeed, and eventually graduate with a degree. Being a college student in a four-year institution is something to celebrate as they transition from being in a first-generation home to their own home with a college degree.”
Current first-gen students gathered at the Student Support Center for a session that provided tips for developing good study habits and note-taking skills. Later that day, there was a First-Gen informational table to promote the TRIO program, and UMFK first-gen pins were given out to wear with pride.
The University Credit Union’s branch manager on the UMPI campus, Jen Deschaine, was invited to discuss First-Gen scams and how to avoid them. The week-long festivities ended with free coffee, donuts, and a photo booth.
For more information on the TRIO Program at UMFK, please contact Susan Dubay, director of Student Support Services, at susan.dubay@maine.edu or by calling 207-834-7869.
