In higher education, we understand that a student’s educational path is impacted by so much more than academic factors. As higher education institutions strive to adapt to this century’s student population, there has been a renewed focus on student well-being and caring for the whole student. These initiatives help first-generation students navigate their new learning environments by encouraging the development of healthy mindsets, actions, and behaviors with a goal for students to build a life of purpose, resilience, and engagement. This year’s theme invites participants to consider the well-being life cycle of a first-gen college student and the cultivation of tools to maintain well-being throughout life's journey.

The core of the symposium will remain the same: to educate, share ideas, and work to serve the needs of first-generation students and their families. The symposium will feature presentations, breakout sessions, resources, as well as the return of the Student Panel session! The anticipated audience will include students, faculty, and staff from Rowan University and other colleges and universities.