Office of First-Generation Student Success
Transform Your Future
First Generation Student Success at East Texas A&M University is a resource office dedicated to supporting students who are the first in their families to attend college. The office aims to help students feel like they belong at East Texas A&M and connects them with supportive campus resources.
First-Generation Students
First-generation students make up 67% of the undergraduate population at East Texas A&M. The university defines a first-generation student as an undergraduate or graduate student whose parent/s or guardian/s did not complete a four-year bachelor's college degree from an institution of higher education in the United States. If a student has only one primary parent or guardian, the education of the non-primary parent does not need to be considered.
The Office of First-Generation Success recognizes the multitude of family dynamics and understands that there may be students who identify as first-generation outside of this definition. We welcome all students who wish to engage with and receive support from our office—we are here to help.
Resources
Support First-Generation Student Success
A gift to the Office of First-Generation Student Success is more than a donation. It's an investment in our first-gen students and their futures. With your support, we provide experiential learning opportunities that channel academic success and professional growth. Thank you for your impact on our students' success!
First-Gen Lions Program
First-Gen Lions is an extended mentorship program exclusively for first-generation students—those whose parents or guardians didn’t graduate from a four-year university in the United States. This amazing program provides a great academic experience and an excellent support network. First-Gen Lion members participate in L1ONS Summit, our first-generation student conference, attend workshops, work closely with our B1G Mentors, and attend social events for the First-Gen Lion community.
First-Gen Lions program requirements
Students in the First-Gen Lions program must:
- Complete a Fall 25 cohort application
- Attend the L1ONS Summit Conference
- Visit the Undergraduate Tutoring Services for a set amount each semester
- Meet monthly with B1G Mentors.
Welcome from the Program Director
Hey Lions!
Welcome to East Texas A&M University! We are thrilled to have you as part of our vibrant community. Whether you are just beginning your college journey or continuing your studies, we are here to support you every step of the way.
I am honored to serve as the program director for First-Generation Student Success. As a first-generation college student myself, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being the first in your family to pursue higher education. With nearly 20 years of experience in the higher education field, I have dedicated my career to helping students like you navigate the path from admission to graduation.
Our First-Generation Student Success program offers a range of services, including academic mentorship, workshops and social events designed to help you thrive academically and personally.
As you embark on this exciting journey, I encourage you to take advantage of the many opportunities available to you. Get involved in campus activities, seek support when needed, and never hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to help you overcome any obstacles and celebrate your successes.
Go Lions!
Meet our Staff
Contact Us
- Office of First Generation Student Success
- 903.468.5097
- [email protected]
- Velma K. Waters Library, Suite 173
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429