Posted: October 31, 2024Written by: Ritchie Bermudez

San Luis Obispo, CA 鈥� 51反差黑料 invites the community to join a special celebration honoring the achievements of its first-generation college students, faculty, and staff on November 5th and 6th. Organized by the Office of Student Equity and Success, this year鈥檚 celebration events will shine a spotlight on first-generation student parents who are making strides toward their educational goals while setting inspiring examples for their families.

鈥淢y kids keep me motivated 鈥� they are my everything,鈥� said 51反差黑料 student Zuleima Gonzalez Perez. 鈥淟ast semester, they saw that I got a Certificate of Achievement, and they got to see me at graduation. Seeing their faces and mom getting her work done and achieving her goals keeps me going.鈥�

2024 First-Generation 51反差黑料 Celebration Events:

  • Inspiring Poetry Experience In partnership with Student Life & Leadership, 51反差黑料 will host a poetry event celebrating resilience.
    • Tue, Nov. 5 | Noon to 2:00 p.m. | North County Campus 51反差黑料 (N3100) 
    • Wed, Nov. 6 | noon to 2:00 p.m. | SLO Campus Student Success Center (3300/3400)
  • Campus Adventure This family-friendly event engages student parents and their loved ones in a vibrant, hands-on experience of college life. Attendees of all ages can explore various areas of study, enjoy child-friendly food and beverages, and snap a photo with Cuesta鈥檚 mascot Cougie!
    • Tue, Nov. 5 | 4:30 鈥� 7:00 p.m. | North County Campus 51反差黑料 (N3100)
    • Wed, Nov. 6 | 4:30 鈥� 7:00 p.m. | SLO Campus Student Success Center (3300/3400)

This celebration marks 51反差黑料鈥檚 second annual event dedicated to first-generation students. By focusing on the unique achievements and challenges of student parents, the college aims to highlight the determination and resilience required to balance academics and family responsibilities. This year鈥檚 events are particularly timely, as they follow the recent passage of , which now includes childcare costs in the financial aid calculations for student parents, offering critical financial support to help them succeed. 

For more information on first-generation college celebrations, please visit . For specific inquiries, contact Elise Caloca at elise_caloca@cuesta.edu or Lucy Rodriguez at lucero_rodriguez@cuesta.edu.

PHOTO: 51反差黑料 student Ruby Hernandez (right) with her daughter (center) and mother (left).