Celebrating National First-Generation College Student Day: An Investment in Our Collective Future

November 8 marked National First-Generation College Student Day, a day that commemorates the Higher Education Act of 1965, which opened doors to higher education for first-generation and low-income students. As a first-generation college graduate and educator myself, I know firsthand the transformative power of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and expanding opportunities for families and communities alike. Reflecting on this, I am reminded of the significant role that first-generation college students play in shaping California’s future workforce and economy.

At Ventura College, we proudly celebrate the resilience, determination, and passion of the many first-generation students who bring vibrancy to our campus. Their journeys are more than personal achievements; they represent family legacies, breaking barriers, and building brighter futures for entire communities. Approximately 48 percent of our students are the first in their families to pursue higher education, a remarkable milestone for them and for their loved ones.

For these students, the path to a degree involves unique challenges, from navigating financial aid to balancing academics with family responsibilities. Yet, despite these hurdles, our first-generation students persist, thrive, and succeed. One such student, Aracely Soriano-Perez, shared, “Being at Ventura College as a first-generation and dual enrollment student has inspired me to pursue higher education and break barriers as an ambitious Latina in STEM. The college’s support, resources, and academic rigor have helped me grow in responsibility and resilience while enjoying college life.” Her story reflects the drive of so many first-generation students, each overcoming obstacles to envision college as part of their future and, in turn, inspiring others.

This day is an opportunity to recognize not only our students’ courage but also the programs, support systems, and mentors who uplift them. At Ventura College, we’re proud to provide a range of resources specifically designed to support first-generation students, including our First Year Experience (FYE) program, Extended Opportunity Programs and Services (EOPS), and dedicated financial aid assistance. Our partnerships with local high schools through dual enrollment programs allow students to earn college credits while still in high school, helping them and their families see college as achievable and accessible.

The strength of our campus goes beyond programs; it’s rooted in our community. Many of our faculty and staff were first-generation students themselves, and they know the importance of mentorship and support in navigating college life. They serve not only as educators but also as role models, mentors, and advocates for a new generation of graduates. Vincent Jimenez, a first-generation alum, described the impact of these relationships: "As a first-generation student, I felt lost growing up without a role model. Joining EOPS was life-changing, and with the support of mentors like Kenya Galdamez Ramirez and English professor Fernando Salinas, I found my path in poetry and a sense of purpose." Stories like Vincent’s remind us how individualized support makes a lasting difference in students’ lives.

A college degree not only opens doors to new career paths but also has a substantial impact on lifetime earning potential. Studies consistently show that individuals with a college degree earn, on average, over a million dollars more over their lifetime compared to those without one. For first-generation students, this difference can be transformative, as higher earning potential supports not only individual success but also strengthens family and community stability. By pursuing higher education, first-generation students are not just changing their own futures—they’re setting the stage for long-term economic mobility and contributing to a more prosperous, resilient society for all.

This November, as we honor the achievements of first-generation students, we also recognize the critical role that Ventura College and colleges like ours play in supporting students from all backgrounds to reach their full potential. When first-generation students succeed, their success reverberates outward, benefiting families, communities, and the entire economy. Investing in first-generation students is an investment in a brighter future for us all.

To all first-generation students: we celebrate your milestones, support your journey, and cheer you on as you continue to break barriers.

Claudia Lourido-Habib, Ed.D., is president of Ventura College.