Parental love is irreplaceable. Parents dote on their children for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes it’s for the simpler things like shooting the winning basket in their team’s game, but other times it’s much bigger accomplishments.
An astonishing amount of students are the first in their families to go to college at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. The recently created, First To Go program focuses on guiding and giving intentional support to first generation students and their families.
“While I think that this program helps allay parents’ fears, it has a greater impact on the students in that it helps them learn how to navigate campus successfully and independently,” said Dr. Shannon Baker, assistant dean of the College of Arts & Sciences.
On Oct.1 to 6, First To Go will commence its accustomed week of activities. Each day will bring something different and beneficial to students as several of the colleges have donated goodies to be given away during the events. The first day will feature a FAFSA filing party, open to all students at the Library, Room 306B from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Following the first day there will also be Financial Aid Bingo, presentations made by the Center For Student Success, the Writing Center and Career Services, a presentation made by Dr. Michael Houf, associate history professor, on how to communicate with professors, and Trips and Tricks for first generation students presented by Houf during the Parents Workshop given by Student Activities.
“We hope that these programs help our first generation students build relationships with faculty/staff on campus and make sure they are aware of our resources on campus. We also have a session during our family weekend that will help our parents understand how to support their college student from afar,” said Erin McClure, director of Student Activities.
The week’s activities will be organized by the First To Go Ad Hoc Committee in partnership with Student Activities, Center for Student Success, the Alumni department, and many other university organizations who feel that they can personally relate to the students.
“I think the best part of this program is that myself and several other committee members are first generation students ourselves so we remember the struggles we faced and we’re able to offer our advice and support. We each consider ourselves successful college graduates and now we have the opportunity to help current students achieve that same goal,” said Emily Morin, administrative assistant with the Office of Admissions.