Peru, Nebraska - Peru State College will recognize the third annual national First Generation College Day on November 8, the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. 

To celebrate first generation members of our campus community -- students, staff and faculty -- are invited to make and proudly wear an “I’m First-Gen” button.  Stop in the Student Success Services (SSS) offices in the lower level of the CATS Building to make your button and enjoy some freshly popped popcorn starting at 12:30 pm.

A first generation college student is defined as a student who is raised in a household where neither custodial parent has earned a bachelor’s degree.  Without college educated parental role models, first generation college students may be challenged by an unexpected level of academic rigor in their classes, by unfamiliar words, customs, and traditions, or by feelings of isolation or imposter syndrome that threaten their persistence to graduation.

Peru State has resources to support first generation students including the TRIO SSS program.  Located in the basement of CATS, SSS supports its members from their arrival on campus to graduation.  First generation faculty and staff across campus can share their own journey as a first generation student college student and how they achieved academic success.  Look for members of the campus community with a “I’m First-Gen” button on November 8 and ask them about their journey.

According to the TRIO SSS Director, Dr. Vicky Jones, “Over half of new freshmen at Peru State College are first generation college students.  The College creates an environment where all student can graduate if they are willing to accept help.” 

If you are or know of a student who is struggling this semester, come to the CATS building for assistance.  If you don’t know who to ask or where to go, come to the lower level of CATS and let SSS help direct you.

The Pellin Institute describes the Higher Education Act of 1965, "The HEA created grants, loans and other programs to help students acquire education beyond secondary school. The Talent Search program, then called Contracts to Encourage the Full Utilization of Educational Talent, was created in the Higher Education Act of 1965. Today, all TRIO programs are authorized under the amended law."

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