SKYCTC to host First Generation Celebration

BOWLING GREEN, KY - When Nikki crossed the stage to receive her college diploma, she wasn’t walking just for herself—she was walking for her parents, her younger siblings, and every person in her family who had dreamed of a better future but never had the chance to pursue one. As the first in her family to graduate from college, Nikki’s accomplishment carried the weight of generations.

But Nikki’s journey wasn’t easy. From navigating financial aid forms that seemed written in another language, to balancing part-time work with full-time coursework, to feeling out of place among classmates whose parents had college degrees—every step required persistence, guidance, and support.

That’s why Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College (SKYCTC) is hosting First Gen Celebration Days, November 10 - 12 at the college’s main campus on Loop Drive in Bowling Green, KY.

Activities will include:

November 10 — First Gen Graffiti Wall (Building J) - Faculty, staff, & students sign their names and/or write an inspirational message

November 11 — First Gen Social (Social Staircase Lobby in L 10 am – 2 pm)

• Catered light lunch from Mister B's
• Open Mic Setup - First Gen faculty, staff, & students can share their journey
  Email judy.scott@kctcs.edu if you'd like to share your story.
• Campus Resource Tables - Connecting students to SKYCTC resources to help them along the way

November 12 — Show Me the Money (Financial Literacy Games 11:30 am – 1 pm) with Jennifer Martin (Service One Credit Union)

• Cashy Game (11:30am-12:30pm)
  • Interactive “life sim” game for money management
  • Merch Giveaway - Branded SKYCTC & Service One Credit Union swag
• Dollars & Scholars Game (12:30pm-1:00pm)
  • Financial Literacy Q&A game - One round - $200 cash prize for one lucky student 

1. First-Gen Students Bring Strength and Perspective
First-generation college students are often incredibly resourceful. They know what it means to work hard, adapt, and solve problems. They bring diverse experiences and perspectives that enrich classroom discussions and campus culture. Supporting them isn’t just the right thing to benefit everyone.

2. Understanding Their Unique Challenges
Many first-gen students enter college without a built-in roadmap. Their families may cheer them on wholeheartedly but may not know how to help navigate FAFSA, academic advising, or networking opportunities. Without proper guidance, these students may feel isolated or overwhelmed. Institutional support—like mentoring programs, first-gen student organizations, and academic coaching—helps bridge those gaps.

3. The Ripple Effect of Success
When one first-generation student succeeds, entire families and communities rise with them. Nikki’s younger brother, inspired by her example, applied to college the following year. Her parents, once uncertain about the value of higher education, now encourage other families to dream bigger. Every first-gen graduate becomes a beacon of possibility.

4. How Support Makes the Difference
What turned Nikki’s dreams into reality wasn’t luck—it was connection. A caring advisor explained the financial aid process. A mentor guided her through the challenges of her first semester. A scholarship eased her financial burden. Each act of support built a bridge toward her success.

5. Building a Culture of Belonging
Supporting first-generation students is about more than programs, it’s about creating a culture where they feel seen, valued, and capable of thriving. It’s about colleges recognizing that potential exists everywhere, not just in those who already know how the system works.

 
Nikki’s story reminds us that when we invest in first-generation students, we invest in the future. We open doors that have long been closed and light pathways for generations to come. Supporting them doesn’t just change one life, it changes the trajectory of many.