“The fact that I got into college was just a dream come true.”


This statement is true for East Tennessee State University senior Chloe Salyer and resonates with many other first-generation college students.


The journey of a first-generation student may not be the same journey that their peers encounter, but certainly displays the resilience and perseverance of those working toward a college degree.


“In a lot of cases, first-generation students have overcome so many obstacles to be in college, and we are just so fortunate that they are here,” said Dr. Erin Messmer, assistant director for TRIO Student Support Services. “It is so important for programs like TRIO to exist on college campuses to be able to help students navigate toward and get to graduation day.”


Earlier this year, ETSU honored first-generation students by celebrating National First-Generation College Student Celebration Day. The event, organized by ETSU’s TRIO Programs, took place at University Commons and provided an opportunity to recognize current and former first-generation students. At ETSU, first-generation college students make up approximately 33% of the undergraduate student population.


The day is recognized nationwide and is organized by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) and the Council for Opportunities in Education (COE). The observance has its roots in the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Student smiling while holidng a sticker that says "I am first-gen!" and an ice cream cone.
Two students looking in the distance and smiling.
Student standing at a table talking to two staff members
Student smiling while holidng a sticker that says "I am first-gen!"


Although the day is student-focused, it extends its accolades to the first-generation faculty and staff members at ETSU. Dr. Ronnie Gross, the executive director of TRIO, underscored the significance of the day, stating, "Along with the first-generation students here at ETSU, we wanted to recognize and celebrate first-generation faculty and staff who are serving as role models and mentors for first-generation students."



TRIO Programs at ETSU are committed to serving low-income and first-generation students, ensuring that adequate resources and support are available. Many other offices and departments at ETSU also support students in a similar way. Representatives from TRIO Student Support Services, the Ronald E. McNair Program, Center for Academic Achievement, New Student and Family Programs, Department of Cross-Disciplinary Studies and College of Clinical and Rehabilitative Health Sciences were present during the celebration to demonstrate this support.

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“I am very proud of myself for getting through college,” Salyer said as she reflected on her time as a first-generation student. “The staff here at ETSU helped me recognize my potential along the way. My advice to other first-generation students would be to take advantage of every opportunity that is presented to you.”


“We are all working toward the same goal at ETSU,” said Messmer. “We want all of our students to graduate, and in order to achieve that goal, we are working together as one campus community to support our students during their time on campus.”  


TRIO programs at ETSU have achieved a range of successes, including winning a string of grants last year.  


TRIO, federally funded outreach and student service programs, offers potential and current ETSU students a range of assistance that includes financial aid advice and help for veterans. To learn more about TRIO and the resources and services it offers, visit etsu.edu/provost/trio.

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