What Does it Mean to be a First-Generation Student?
A formal definition of a first-generation college student is a student whose parent(s) did not complete a four-year college or university degree in the United States. However, at Texas State University, we understand that this definition may not fully account for the depth and breadth of experiences first-generation college students represent. For example, you are first-generation if:
- Your parent/guardian(s) have some college experience but did not earn a degree from a four-year college or university in the United States.
- Your sibling has completed a college degree.
- Your primary caretaker did not earn a degree from a four-year college or university in the United States.
Wondering if you are a first-generation student?
Reach out to firstgen@txstate.edu with your questions!
40.4% First-Generation First-Year Students
43% First-Generation Undergraduate Students
Fall '25 Events
- Location:
- LBJ Ballroom; Grand Ballroom
- Cost:
- Free
- Contact:
- Dylan Pique; dlp175@txstate.edu; 512.408.8772
- Campus Sponsor:
- First Gen Proud
Welcome back Bobcats!! Celebrate with us to kick off the new school year in the right way with one of our most anticipated annual events, First Gen Welcome!
Come connect with some of our most utilized campus resources, kick back with your friends and play some yard games, and of course, collect your FREE First Gen Proud t-shirt.
Not sure if you're first gen? Review how Texas State defines first gen here on our website, or come by the event to ask us yourself. We would love to connect! Click here for more information
more about event
Come connect with some of our most utilized campus resources, kick back with your friends and play some yard games, and of course, collect your FREE First Gen Proud t-shirt.
Not sure if you're first gen? Review how Texas State defines first gen here on our website, or come by the event to ask us yourself. We would love to connect! Click here for more information
- Location:
- Commons Dining Hall; First Gen/B3 Lounge (2nd floor)
- Cost:
- Free
- Contact:
- Dylan Pique; dlp175@txstate.edu; 512.408.8772
- Campus Sponsor:
- First Gen Proud
Need some support navigating the beginning of the semester? Come chat with First Gen Proud to get support and answers to your questions! Grab a bite at Commons Dining Hall, and come join us upstairs for dessert. Cookies and brownies will be available. Come ask our staff any questions that have come up during your first week of classes!
Click here for more information
more about event
- Location:
- Comal; 116
- Cost:
- Free
- Contact:
- Dylan Pique; dlp175@txstate.edu; 512.408.8772
- Campus Sponsor:
- First Gen Proud
Need some help navigating budgeting basics in college? Join us and UFCU as we go over foundational information and tips on how to manage your personal finances and create a dynamic personal budget! We will have free swag, food, and lots of knowledge to share!
Click here for more information
more about event
- Location:
- Denise M. Trauth and John L. Huffman Hall; 342
- Cost:
- Free
- Contact:
- Dylan Pique; dlp175@txstate.edu
- Campus Sponsor:
- First Gen Proud
The FAFSA/TASFA applications for the '25-'26 school year opens on October 1. We've partnered with the legendary Dr. Byron Kerr from Financial Aid and Scholarships to help you navigate this process effectively, and be first in line for federal funding. Dr. Kerr will do an overview of the application process and address some common questions to the group for about the first 30 minutes, then he will be available to assist with your specific application questions. Seize this opportunity to submit your FAFSA early with the help of a knowledgeable professional.
Know before you go: Have your FAFSA ID ready, you don't want to lose valuable time navigating password recovery. You can check or reset your credentials by following this link. Remind your parents to have their credentials ready as well if you are filing as a dependent. Connect with anyone helping you submit this form before our event, and have questions ready to go.
We will have t-shirts, and other merch, to giveaway to students who attend! Click here for more information
more about event
Know before you go: Have your FAFSA ID ready, you don't want to lose valuable time navigating password recovery. You can check or reset your credentials by following this link. Remind your parents to have their credentials ready as well if you are filing as a dependent. Connect with anyone helping you submit this form before our event, and have questions ready to go.
We will have t-shirts, and other merch, to giveaway to students who attend! Click here for more information
Support First-Gen Students
Your gift to the First Gen Proud Campaign helps support students at Texas State, ensuring their success through mentorship and other forms of institutional resources.
Resources
First-Gen Grad Celebration
Save the date: December 6
More information coming soon!
Meet the Team
Come visit us in Commons Dining Hall, we're on the second floor!