First-Generation College Celebration Week

See our First-Gen Week page with all events, signup links, downloads and more here!

All Week

Meet us in the Dining Halls for displays, first-gen features, first-gen celebratory treats made by the dining staff, and try out for the f1rst time a new pairing for smoothies and ice cream!

Friday, November 6

F1rst Talk with the First-Gen Center & TRIO

Hot Cocoa and Hot Topics for first-gen students!

12-2 pm

Forten 123, next to Starbucks

For First-Gen Students. Join the First-Generation Student Success Center for our F1rst Talks, Hot Cocoa and Hot Topics, a casual conversation where we’re sharing on all things first-gen — from navigating college life to tackling common challenges. Enjoy hot drinks, cold drinks, and wings , connect with fellow first-gen students, and build community while keeping it real.

Stop by Central Dining to eat a “F1rst Cookie” or try for an unusual pairing at the Ice Cream Station!

Saturday, November 7

First-Gen Summit Conference at Harvard

All day

Forten 123, next to Starbucks

For First-Gen Students & Staff. Event is full. The First-Generation Student Success Center takes students to Harvard University for the annual First-Gen Summit Conference. SSU will have a presenter!

Tuesday, November 10

F1rst-Gen Campus Walk

All day

Starts in the First-Gen Center, North Campus Admin Building

For First-Gen Students. Take part in for the First-Gen Campus Trail to kick off First-Gen Celebration Week!  

Go to the First-Generation Student Success Center at any time and get your First-Gen Trail trail map, then follow the trail to explore different offices supporting your success at Salem State. Collect stamps on your trail card from each location you visit, meet staff and hear more about the services available to you as a First Viking! 

Find us by going to North Campus Bookstore, and follow the arrows to our Center, or use this google pin 42.504041, -70.890568, enter the Administration Building and follow the signs.

Stop by Central Dining to eat a “first-gen Rice Krispy Treat”!

Tuesday, November 10

Faculty and Staff Workshop

12-1:30pm

LIB 215 Berry Library

For Faculty and Staff. Join the CTI and First-Gen Center to hear from classroom practices that support first-gen student success, lessons learned from the inaugural summer 2026 First-Gen Academy, share a collaborative activities to spark practical ideas for supporting first-gen learners. Be the first to review and comment on the new canvas site for faculty and staff serving first-gen! Lunch provided with giveaways! 

Sign up for this event.

Ask for your first-gen magnet or "welcome first-gen" door sign

PARTICIPATE IN OUR FIRST FACULTY AND STAFF 2027 YEARBOOK.

Thursday, November 12

Fearless First Photoshoot

Get your picture taken by a professional photographer for free!

3-6 pm

Commuter Lounge, Ellison Campus Center

For First-Gen Students. Book your spot and get your photo taken by a professional photographer and receive a Fearless First t-shirt! Free giveaways!

Reserve your spot

Stop by Central Dining to try for an unusual pairing at the Ice Smoothie Station!

Friday, November 13

First-Gen Celebration for all

Open to all SSU members!

11 am-2 pm

MLK room Ellison Campus Center

Join us in our yearly celebration of the first-gen SSU community and our first-gen students! Food and fun games provided! Prizes! Raffles!

Stop by Central Dining to eat a “F1rst Cupcake”!