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Signature Events

First-Generation New Student Welcome

The First-Generation New Student Welcome represents a significant and celebratory event for all first-year, first-generation students at the start of their academic journey at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. It is held annually at the beginning of the fall semester. The welcome event is an opportunity for new first-generation students to connect with their peers, faculty, and staff and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. The event marks the beginning of their academic journey as a first-generation scholar at the university.

National First-Generation College Student Day

Each year, colleges and universities all over the country recognizes November 8th as National First-Generation College Student Day. Check out the #celebratefirstgen on social media platforms to see all of the amazing celebrations happening on this day.

First-Generation Graduates Reception

The First-Generation Graduates Reception is open to all graduating first-generation students, their families, and the larger UT campus community. The Reception takes place each fall and spring semester. The fall semester reception acknowledges and recognizes our summer and fall graduates while the spring reception is designated for spring graduates. This important event is an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of our first-generation graduates and to recognize their support systems. It is also an opportunity for our new graduates to reflect on their success and journey as first-generation college students. The Graduates Receptions marks the culmination of their academic journey as a first-generation scholar at the university.

For specific details on dates, times, and locations of the Signature Events and other FGI events, check out our calendar of events.