Grant Helps Edison’s Middlesex College Empower First-Gen Students

EDISON, NJ — Edison’s Middlesex College recently celebrated first-generation college students at a daylong event at its campus.

Supported by a grant from FirstGen Forward, a national organization dedicated to first-generation student success, the event was held on Nov. 8 and included workshops where students shared experiences and offered advice and insight to their peers. There was also a career development session focused on job interview tips and techniques.

The celebration concluded with a networking event for students, faculty, and staff.

The event was organized by Maribel Garcia-Gonzalez, Alyssa Ignacio, and Jenifer Olvera, Middlesex College staff members who serve as advisors for the Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) honors society for first-generation students.

The three are all first-generation college students and Middlesex College alumnae themselves.

“We are passionate about supporting and uplifting fellow first-generation students,” Olvera, an administrator in the Financial Aid Office, said.

“We hope attendees feel a sense of belonging, empowerment, and inspiration. By connecting with peers, sharing experiences, and learning from accomplished college professionals, we aim to create a supportive environment that fosters academic and personal growth.”

Around 42 percent of students at Middlesex College are first-generation, meaning that no parent or guardian of a student has earned a four-year college degree.

The $1,000 grant, provided by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and FirstGen Forward, enables Middlesex College to further its commitment to supporting first-generation college students in the community.

“Representation matters, and the First-Generation College Celebration allows our first-gen students to know they are not alone,” Garcia-Gonzalez, an academic advisor for Career and Transfer Services said. “Many times, I tell the first-gen students I work with that I was in their shoes not too long ago. We are truly honored to be part of the coordinating and executing of the sessions we would have loved to attend when we were students.”

Funds from the grant were used to create collectibles including pins, hats, and T-shirts featuring the First-Generation College Celebration logo, which were given to students who attended the event to showcase their first-gen pride.

Earlier this year, the College was named a member of the 2024–25 FirstGen Forward Network, a national initiative that supports first-generation student success in higher education.

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