Celebrating journeys, empowering success
First-Generation Programming
The First-Generation Initiative creates intentional opportunities for academic, career, social, and cultural engagement for first-gen scholars throughout their academic journey.
A community for every step of the journey
First-Generation Programming celebrates and empowers first-generation students at UT through intentional programming, tailored resources, and a strong support network designed to help them thrive. The program recognizes the resilience, tenacity, and aspirations of first-generation Vols while creating a nurturing, inclusive environment where they can grow in confidence and pursue new opportunities. Through milestone experiences such as the First-Generation Welcome, National First-Generation Day, and the First-Generation Graduate Reception, we honor students’ journeys from arrival through graduation.
Who first-generation includes
At the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, we define a first-generation college student as any undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral student whose parents or legal guardians have not earned a bachelor’s (four-year) degree.
We recognize that the first-generation identity is a proud accomplishment that stays with you throughout your entire academic journey. Whether you are stepping onto a college campus for the first time to earn your bachelor’s degree, or you are advancing your field as a master’s or doctoral candidate, you are a valued part of our first-generation community.
You are proudly considered a first-generation student at UT if:
- You are the first in your family to earn a bachelor’s degree.
- Your parents or guardians attended some college or earned an associate degree, but did not complete a four-year bachelor’s degree.
- You have siblings who are currently attending or have graduated from a four-year university. (First-generation status is based solely on the educational background of your parents or guardians).
- Your parents or guardians earned a degree in another country, but you are navigating the American higher education system for the first time.
- You are a graduate or professional student (master’s, doctoral, etc.) whose parents or guardians did not complete a bachelor’s degree.
Being first-generation is a point of pride at UT. We are committed to providing the resources, community, and support you need to thrive from your first day of classes through graduation and beyond.
Annual programming
First-Generation New Student Welcome
The First-Generation Welcome at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is an annual fall event that welcomes first-year, first-generation students to campus. The program helps new students begin their UT journey by building connections with fellow first-generation Vols, faculty, staff, and campus resources. As a signature first-generation student event, it fosters belonging, celebrates achievement, and introduces students to the support network available to help them succeed academically and personally from the start.
National First-Generation College Celebration Day
National First-Generation Day at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is celebrated each year on November 8. The observance honors the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded access to higher education for low-income and first-generation students. At UT, this annual celebration recognizes the achievements, leadership, and impact of first-generation students, faculty, and staff. Visit Vol Connect to explore this year’s First-Generation College Celebration Day events, programs, and opportunities to get involved.
First-Generation Graduate Reception
The First-Generation Graduate Reception at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville is held each fall and spring during commencement season to honor graduating first-generation students. Open to graduates, their families, supporters, and the UT campus community, this celebration recognizes academic achievement, personal growth, and the support systems that helped students succeed. The reception gives first-generation graduates a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their college journey, celebrate this milestone, and mark the completion of their academic experience at UT.