Drake is excited to hold First-Generation Student Day on Nov. 8.

First-generation students are an important part of the Drake community, and we will be using this day to recognize their achievements and experiences. Throughout the week, we will be celebrating what it means to be first-gen at Drake and beyond. We will end the week with a breakfast to recognize our first generation students, faculty, and staff on Friday, Nov. 8, at 9 a.m. in Levitt Hall. Click here to RSVP.

If you are a first-generation student and want to get involved, stop by the Student Life Center to pick up a “First-Gen Bulldog” button. Also, send your “Why I’m First” stories to Katie Simpson for a chance to be featured on Drake social media and around campus.

Did you know:

• Drake University defines a first-generation college student as a college student whose parents/legal guardians have not received a bachelor’s degree from a four-year university.
• About 14% of our campus community are first generation college students.
• First-Lady Michelle Obama, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, and President Bill Clinton were all first-generation students!

— Marina Verlengia, Director, New Student and Parent Programs