Office of First-Generation Student Success

Transform Your Future

First Generation Student Success at East Texas A&M University is dedicated to supporting students who are the first in their families to attend college by providing a sense of belonging and connecting to campus resources.

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 and diverse 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 academically and personally thrive.

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,

Ryan Horne
Program Director, First-Generation Student Success

Resources

Approximately 65% of East Texas A&M University's undergraduate student population is first-generation. We at East Texas A&M define First-Generation college students as those whose parents and/or guardians have not graduated with a bachelor's degree in the United States. Our office is a dedicated resource hub to support, serve, and celebrate first-generation students from admissions to graduation and beyond!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First-Generation Student Success Center?

  • First-Generation Student Success is a resource office developed to support first-generation students as they navigate college life. First-generation students make up 67% of the undergraduate population at East Texas A&M. First-Generation Student Success collaborates with campus partners to design workshops and presentations addressing topics such as campus resources, financial aid, financial literacy, college terminology, career preparation and peer mentoring.

Do you find this helpful? Yes No

Who is a first-generation college student?

  • East Texas A&M 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.
  • Note: The First Generation Success Center 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.
Do you find this helpful? Yes No

If I'm a donor, how can I support the First-Generation Student Success Center?

  • A gift to the First-Generation Student Success Center 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!
Do you find this helpful? Yes No

Meet our Staff

Ryan Horne Program Director for First Generation Student Success
Danielle Smith Administrative Coordinator
Tobi Oladapo Graduate Assistant

Contact Us

  • Velma K. Waters Library, Suite 173
  • P.O. Box 3011
  • Commerce, TX 75429

Navigate This Page