First-Generation College Celebration | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Publisher's note: The author of this post, Morgan Tilton, is a contributor to ECU News Services.

    First-generation students are defined broadly (neither parent has completed a four-year degree) or narrowly (neither parent has any postsecondary education). With nearly one-third of freshman cohorts across the country designated first-generation, colleges and universities are building programs and resources specific to them and their needs. ECU is no different.

    According to the 2014 Beginning College Survey of Student Engagement (BCSSE) survey, between one-third and one-half of all first-time, full-time students entering ECU in Fall 2014 would be considered first generation students. For example, 55% of respondents to BCSSE indicated that no parent/guardian had a bachelor's degree or higher and 33% indicated no parent had any schooling beyond high school. (Note: The 2017 BCSSE was administered during this past summer orientation).


    ECU is poised to continue intentional program for first-generation students and their families in order to address the challenges and needs of these students. We begin by joining institutions around the country in celebrating first-generation college students, faculty, and staff on our campus.

    Sponsored by NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education and the American Association of Colleges & Universities (AACU), and ECU's Division of Student Affairs, the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration is being celebrated nationally on November 8, 2017. As a first-generation administrator, faculty, staff, and/or student, we invite you to join us in celebration.

    Please respond at this link: https://ecu.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0krEvnCxzQ7Bj

    For more information, contact Dr. Mary Beth Corbin at corbinm@ecu.edu or 252-328-4173.