For the first time this November (November 5-8), Villanova will participate in the national celebration week of first generation students. This event, which coincides with the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, celebrates the contributions and achievements of first-generation students at our nations’ universities.  

What’s a first generation college student? Most often, it means that neither of your parents have earned a bachelor’s degree making you the first generation in your family to do so.

Falvey Memorial Library can be an incredible resource for first-generation college students. Dr. Stacey Havlik of the Education and Counseling Department, says, “I think the library is an amazing resource for all students. I believe that it helps for them [the librarians] to do presentations and teach all students how to access and use their resources…I think this is an excellent way for all of us to be aware, and helps us to know how to pass information down to students.”

Havlik, a first-generation college student herself, encourages students to cultivate relationships with faculty and staff. “Do not be afraid to seek help and ask questions,” she advises.

There are events happening all over campus all week. Check out the schedule of programs here, or below: