UCalgary celebrates inaugural First-Generation Networking Night

The University of Calgary proudly hosted its inaugural First-Generation Networking Night on Feb. 6, marking a significant milestone for UCalgary’s strategic plan, Ahead of Tomorrow, which includes increasing access to impactful and future-focused education. 

Students who are the first in their families to attend post-secondary education were invited to meet their peers, connect with esteemed leaders across UCalgary, and hear inspiring stories and advice from first-in-family alumni and staff. Among the attendees were Dr. Penny Werthner, interim provost and vice-president (academic), Dr. James Allan, vice-president (advancement), Dr. Malinda Smith, vice-provost (diversity,equity and inclusion), Verity Turpin, vice-provost (student experience), and Dr. Amy Dambrowitz, registrar. 

The evening featured a panel discussion in which UCalgary staff and alumni, who were themselves first-generation students, shared their experiences and a few words of advice. Among the panellists was Edwin Morales, associate director of student wellness services, who emphasized the importance of providing resources and guidance to first-generation students, likening their journey to forging a path through uncharted territory. 

"I kind of picture someone with a machete kind of cutting through the grass," he said. "There are no tracks, and you're making them yourself for the first time."

"There has been a lot of trial and error," says Muskaan Pamery, a second-year health and society major, highlighting the importance of mentorship and community for a first-generation student. "Because I’m the first person in my family to attend post-secondary, I didn’t really have anyone to look up to." 

Addressing barriers to education for future students

The First-Generation Networking Night is a key initiative of the First-in-Family and First-Generation Scholars programs, resulting from UCalgary's Ahead of Tomorrow strategy. The programs aim to increase access to impactful and future-focused education by breaking down the cultural, academic, financial, and informational barriers to university education. Students also have opportunities to access mentorship, a network of first-generation students, and specialized academic advising for first-generation students at UCalgary. 

Additionally, the newly introduced First-Generation Scholars Program provides financial support and comprehensive services for students who are the first in their family to attend university. Eligible students will receive $2,500 toward their first year of tuition, with applications now open for the fall of 2024. 

Verity Turpin highlighted the comprehensive support provided by the First-Generation Scholars Program, emphasizing the value of peer-to-peer programming in creating a sense of belonging. "In addition to financial support during a student's first term," she said, "the scholars will have access to support and programming that will assist them in learning about all things UCalgary."