Portland State University is a First-Gen Forward institution and is proud to celebrate National First-Generation Celebration Week with some awesome events:
Signature Event: First-Gen Symposium
Nov. 4, 2025 | 10:00am - 2:00pm
SMSU 338 Vanport Room
In recognition of National First-Generation Day, join us for a First-Gen Symposium! As a First-Gen Forward Network Institution, the goal of the symposium is to celebrate, uplift and empower the PSU first-gen community. Join us in celebration and engage with other first gen students, faculty and staff! Lunch will be provided!
RSVP to reserve your spot!
First-gen Transfer Student Power Hour
Nov. 3, 2025 | 12:40pm - 1:30pm
Transfer Center Office FMH 342
Join the PSU Transfer Center in celebrating first gen transfer students! Our weekly Power Hour community lunch will have extra treats for first gen students!
Contact Transfer and Returning Student Resources for location and more info ›
Qanun Journeys
Nov. 4, 2025 | 12:00pm - 2:00pm
MENASA Student Center SMSU 238
For students who are interested in pursuing law school or a career in the legal field
PSU Eats: First-Gen Coffee Hour
Nov. 4, 2025 | 12:00pm - 1:00pm
SMSU 1st Floor
Stop by to grab free coffee and learn more about meal plans and dining options available on campus! PSU Eats will be sharing helpful info tailored for first-gen students — come with questions, leave with coffee and answers!
Navigating the Workplace as a First-Generation Professional
Nov. 4, 2025 | 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Virtual (see description for Zoom link)
Are you a first-generation college student preparing to enter the professional world of public health or healthcare? Join us for a panel discussion designed to help first-generation professionals uncover and navigate the hidden curriculum of the workplace — the unspoken norms, expectations, and professional skills that often aren’t taught in classrooms. Who are first-generation professionals? First-generation professionals are individuals who are the first in their families to graduate from college and enter professional careers. They often navigate unique challenges as they bridge their family’s background and the unfamiliar culture of professional workplaces.
Please RSVP for Zoom link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScus56m-mMp-qT8HCQ2bOly1XU3LEMogOsqa_rO7Xa1uAQZ9Q/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=103269401241723988595
First-Gen Refuel - Grab a Free Boost!
Nov. 5, 2025 | 2:00pm - 4:00pm
TRIO Student Support Services Office, SMSU 425
Stop by the TRIO SSS office in SMSU 425 for a quick pick-me-up! We're celebrating the success and resilience of our first-generation college students, faculty, and staff. Enjoy free coffee, tea, and snacks on us. It's a quick break to recharge, connect with other first-gen students, and celebrate your incredible journey.
First-Generation Community Lunch
Nov. 6, 2025 | 11:30am - 1:00pm
Vanport 515
Join us for a special lunch celebrating our First-Generation College community! Whether you’re a student, staff, or faculty member whose parents did not graduate from college—or simply an ally who wants to show support—this is a chance to connect, share stories, and build community within the School of Public Health. Enjoy good food, great company, and meaningful conversation as we celebrate the strength and resilience of our first-gen journeys.
Tools for the Voyage
Nov. 6, 2025 | 3:00pm - 5:00pm
MENASA Student Center SMSU 238
Set sail toward success like a true Viking! Join Tools for the Voyage, a CRC First-Gen event, hear inspiring advice, stories, and learn about resources from student organizations, PSU departments and centers. We will have goodies bags and snacks as well.
Test Your Mood!
Date: TBD | Time: TBD
Location TBD
Come learn about the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) and all SHAC services. If you are interested you can also Test Your Mood! with a brief anonymous mental health check up.
Contact The Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) for more information on the date, time and location.