National First-Generation College Celebration Day 2025

First to go Further

November 8th is National First‑Generation College Celebration Day—a national moment to honor the first-generation students in higher education.

Today, we’re spotlighting the students who are the first in their families to navigate higher education. They're not just walking onto campus; they’re forging new paths, bringing bold perspectives, and making room for more voices in the global student community. As they embark on journeys abroad and on-campus, they carry both legacy and possibility, shaping a future where being first means opening doors for many.

Stories Worth Sharing 📖

Being a First Generation College Student Abroad

Joslyn T. finds her voice as a first-generation student studying abroad in Barcelona.

Socio-Economic Imposter Syndrome

Jade E. faces socio-economic imposter syndrome while studying fashion abroad in Milan.

First Gen Guilt

Daisy R. reflects on first-gen guilt as the first in her family to study abroad in Milan.

YOU. DON'T. HAVE. TO. TRAVEL. EVERY. WEEKEND

Chi T. reminds students you don’t have to travel every weekend—enjoy your host city.

What Are These Pre-Study Abroad Emotions?

Jenna H. navigates the emotions that come before your study abroad journey begins.

It's Just a To-Do List...No Reason to be Scared

Aliya S. turns the predeparture checklist from something to fear into a source of strength.

First-Generation Voices From Around The Globe🌍

Studying abroad as a first-gen student comes with its own set of challenges, but plenty of wins too. Hear directly from our First-Generation Correspondents as they share what they learned, what surprised them, and why they wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

“I never imagined I would have the opportunity to ever do this. It is quite a new experience, but something I would not change for anything. There are challenges as it is something very new for me and my family, but I think it’s one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am proud to be a first-gen student abroad and having the opportunity to set a precedent for my family members and future generations.”
Yesenia A. (IES Abroad Santiago | 2017 Spring | Grinnell College)

Insta-Worthy Firsts from Abroad📸

From croissants in Paris to cathedrals in Milan and city lights in Seoul—our first-generation students are capturing their journeys abroad one photo at a time. Take a scroll through their Instagram moments for a glimpse of life, learning, and firsts around the world.

“My biggest advice would be: If students want to study abroad, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation, etc., they should talk to their school about studying abroad. I would recommend looking early for potential scholarship offers and making sure with your counselor that your academics are in order. Also, explain to your parents the significance of what studying abroad can do for your professional career, as well as your personal life. I’m growing everyday as person, expanding my mind, and experiencing how a new culture can change a person.”
Christian C. (IES Abroad Barcelona | 2017 Fall | Elmhurst College)

Headshots of Barbara Bobrich and Thamine Nayeem

75 Years of First-Generation Stories✨

Countless first-generation students and alumni have helped shape our 75-year legacy of global education. Their journeys embody the heart of Our Mission in Motion—expanding access, fostering understanding, and empowering every student to see the world as their classroom.

Among them are Barbara Bobrich and Jannatul (Thamine) Nayeem, two first-generation trailblazers whose stories continue to inspire. Barbara, a lifelong educator and world traveler, turned her own first-generation success into opportunity for others, leaving a lasting legacy through the Barbara Bobrich Annual Scholarship. Thamine, a storyteller and IES Abroad Film Festival finalist, uses her voice to illuminate identity and connection across cultures—proof that the impact of studying abroad lasts far beyond the semester.

Together, their stories remind us that being first isn’t just about where you begin—it’s about how far you can go, and how many others you can bring along the way.

“Milan means more to me than academics. It’s a city where I feel like I can belong, where my identity as a Pakistani-American, first-generation college student, and Muslim won’t just fit in but add to the mix.”
Kashaf I. (IES Abroad Milan | 2025 Fall | Babson College)