Suffolk Reporter

Nearly one-third of the 18,000 undergraduates at Stony Brook University are first-generation college students. These students often face unique challenges, such as unfamiliarity with campus resources, balancing responsibilities at home and work, and financial uncertainties.

Stony Brook's First Generation Week is an annual event in early November dedicated to recognizing and supporting these students. This series of events aligns with the national First-Generation College Celebration and includes workshops and networking opportunities designed to empower them. The events for this year run from November 4 through November 13.

The week began with a welcome brunch and panel on November 4 in the SAC Ballroom, attended by over 50 first-generation students and supporters. Panelists included Takesha Sutton-Young, associate vice president of presidential initiatives; Steven Torres, residence hall director for James Hall; Destinee Weston, residence hall director for Benedict South Community; and Madelyne Gaibor Alban, a senior student majoring in psychology and political science.

Sutton-Young shared her personal journey, emphasizing the importance of education instilled by her father. “Education for us in our house was first and foremost,” she said. As the oldest child with five younger brothers, she carried her family’s hopes for higher education.

Weston spoke about growing up in a struggling community in upstate New York. Despite initial doubts about attending Stony Brook, she found it to be her "best choice." She created a support network that helped her adjust to college life. “Stony Brook was my home away from home,” she noted.

Torres discussed his experience coming from the Bronx without much knowledge of higher education options beyond CUNY schools. As an Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) student, he discovered a supportive community at Stony Brook. “I didn’t know I was a first-gen student until my senior year,” he said.

Gaibor Alban initially struggled to connect at Stony Brook but eventually found support through cultural clubs like the Latin American Student Organization. “Having people to rely on is super important,” she said.

Sutton-Young stressed the importance of seeking help when needed. After a challenging second semester, reaching out to a counselor helped her regain confidence. “Don’t be afraid to reach out… build that relationship," she advised.

Deborah Britton-Riley emphasized the significance of supporting first-generation students: “Supporting first-generation students is crucial... Our efforts are seeding an institutional culture that supports and encourages our first-generation students’ academic and social success.”

The week's events cover topics such as financial literacy, career advising, and offer professional headshots to equip students for success.

"Pride Day" occurs on Friday, November 8, celebrating National First Generation College Student Day with First Generation T-shirts distributed at the opening brunch. A student mixer concludes the week on November 13.

Stony Brook was recently selected as one of 80 institutions inducted into a new class of the FirstGenForward Network due to its commitment to improving experiences for first-generation college students.