Flagship First-Gen

The Flagship First-Gen program provides comprehensive, person-centered, and holistic support that empowers first-generation to thrive academically, socially, and professionally through intentional programming, mentoring, and partnerships that promote community connection, student success, and wellbeing.

Simply put, are you the first person in your family to go to college?

At the University of Mississippi, we are committed to helping our first-generation college student community thrive.

The term ‘‘First Generation College Student” means:

• An individual whose parents/guardians did not complete a four-year degree
• In the case of any individual who regularly resided with and received support from only one parent/guardian, an individual whose only such parent/guardian did not complete a four-year degree
• An individual who does not know the status of parent/guardian’s educational attainment

• Student Success and Wellbeing
• Community Connection and Engagement
• Access and Opportunity
• Leadership Development and Experiential Learning

The First-Generation Student Network is a registered student organization dedicated to the empowerment of first-generation students and their social, cultural, and professional development at the University of Mississippi. Through enriching experiences such as guest-speaker sessions, networking seminars, writing workshops, club hangouts, and more, students can expect to grow both as people and as professionals. We are the campus-wide organization made for and by first-generation college students.

You can learn more about the First-Generation Student Network through the ForUM. The ForUM is your place to discover opportunities at Ole Miss. You can also find information about events, service activities and student organizations.

Email honorsfirstgen@go.olemiss.edu for more information on membership or to get involved.

The Flagship First-Gen Empowerment Series is a structured, multi-track pathways program designed to support first-generation undergraduate students, graduate students, and the faculty and staff who serve them. Through intentional curriculum design, monthly themes, and specific learning tracks, the series builds knowledge, confidence, and coordinated campus support systems that strengthen first-generation across our campus community.

Focus Areas:

• Pathway to Success (Undergraduate)
• Pathway to Strategies (Graduate)
• Pathway to Support (Faculty and Staff)

Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) Honor Society is a chapter-based membership organization and promotes academic excellence and provides opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, and campus and community service for first-generation college students.

Induction into Tri-Alpha is earned by outstanding academic achievement (3.2 GPA or higher for undergraduates) and lasts for a lifetime. The Society’s mission is to encourage and reward academic excellence among first-generation college students.

The University of Mississippi is home to the first chapter of Alpha Alpha Alpha in Mississippi and accepts new members every spring. If you would like to know more about becoming a member of Alpha Alpha Alpha, please email flagshipfirstgen@olemiss.edu.

First-Generation college students who receive the Ole Miss Opportunity Scholarship are eligible to join the Opportunity First-Scholars Program starting their freshman year.

The Opportunity First Scholars Program is a cohort-based student success initiative designed to support Ole Miss Opportunity (OMO) scholars throughout their college journey.

Learn more about the program by visiting the Ole Miss Opportunity Program website.

In recognition of National First-Gen Day on November 8, our National First-Generation Celebration Week is an annual campus-wide celebration recognizing the achievements, resilience, and impact of first-generation students at the University of Mississippi. Through engaging events, networking opportunities, educational programs, and community-building experiences, the week highlights the strength of the first-generation community while connecting students with valuable resources, support, and opportunities for success.

This year’s annual celebration will take place November 2nd-6th and brings a cinematic twist to the first-generation college experience, featuring a week of programs inspired by popular movies and television shows. From career development and creative expression to networking, mentorship, and community building, FIRSTFLIX celebrates the unique stories, experiences, and achievements of our first-generation community.

Whether you're a first-generation student, faculty or staff member, or a supporter of first-generation success, there's a place for you in this celebration.

All events during the week are open to all UM students, faculty, staff and community members. 

Explore the FIRSTFLIX Lineup 

Monday, November 2nd | Full House: Flagship First-Gen Open House

Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Location: Martindale-Cole, Suite Q

There's no place like home, and there's always room for one more in our Flagship First-Gen family!

We're kicking off FIRSTFLIX with an Open House where students, faculty, and staff can meet the team behind the Flagship First-Gen and Ole Miss Opportunity Programs office, connect with our student leaders, and learn more about the resources, programs, and opportunities available to support first-generation student success. Stop by, make connections, and discover what it means to be part of a community where everyone belongs.

First-Gen Student Network Takes the Court: RSO Night

Time: 7:30 PM
Location: Ole Miss Men's Basketball Game vs. Alcorn State

The First-Gen Student Network (FGSN) is taking its First-Gen pride courtside! Join our First-Gen Ambassadors as we cheer on the Ole Miss Rebels Men's Basketball team against Alcorn State during Ole Miss Huddle's RSO Night!

As part of the RSO Spotlight, our First-Gen Ambassadors will have the opportunity to represent the First-Gen community and highlight ways students can get involved with the First-Gen Student Network in front of Rebel fans.

Whether you're already involved or looking to make new connections, come enjoy a night of basketball, school spirit, and First-Gen community!

Tuesday, November 3rd | The Office: Build Your Brand

Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Martindale-Cole, Career Center

Your next chapter starts with how you tell your story!

In partnership with the Career Center, Build Your Brand brings students together for an engaging career development experience focused on personal branding, professional growth, leadership, and preparing for future opportunities.

Featuring nationally recognized speaker Dr. Joshua Fredenburg, this experience encourages students to recognize their strengths, embrace their experiences, and build confidence as they prepare for life beyond college. The evening will also feature a Student Entrepreneur Showcase, highlighting student-owned businesses and the creativity, innovation, and ambition of Ole Miss students. Learn more about guest speaker, Dr. Fredenburg by visiting his website.

Calling All Student Entrepreneurs!

Are you a student entrepreneur interested in showcasing your business? We're inviting student-owned businesses to participate in our Student Entrepreneur Showcase during Build Your Brand! This is an opportunity to share your products or services, connect with the campus community, and gain visibility for your business.

Sign Up to Showcase Your Business

Accessible Link: https://uofmississippi.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bvHdVfZPI9sJlLU

Wednesday, November 4th | A Different World: Explore What's Next

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Union Plaza

A world of possibilities awaits!

Take your academic journey beyond the classroom during A Different World, an interactive tabling experience featuring the University of Mississippi's Graduate School and Study Abroad offices.

Students will have the opportunity to explore graduate education, international learning experiences, and resources that can help them take the next steps toward their academic and professional goals. Whether you're considering graduate school, interested in studying abroad, or simply curious about what's possible, stop by and discover where your journey could take you.

Wednesday, November 4th | A Different World: Open Mic Night

Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Luckyday Residential College
In Partnership With: Department of African American Studies

Every story deserves to be heard!

Join us for an evening of creativity, culture, and community at Open Mic Night. In partnership with the Department of African American Studies, this experience will provide a space for students to share their voices and celebrate artistic expression through poetry, music, spoken word, and more. Come ready to share your talents, support fellow students, and experience the power of storytelling. 

Interested in performing? Complete our Open Mic Night Sign-Up Form to let us know you'd like to participate!

Sign Up to Perform at Open Mic Night 

Accessible Link: https://uofmississippi.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3kIFrc8sXObf2bY

Thursday, November 5th | Mission Possible: First-Gen Networking Mixer

Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Butler Auditorium at The Inn

Your mission, should you choose to accept it: Make connections that matter!

Join first-generation students, faculty, and staff for an informal networking mixer designed to strengthen our campus First-Gen community. This come-and-go experience provides an opportunity to build relationships, share experiences, explore mentorship opportunities, and connect with individuals who understand the first-generation journey.

Whether you're looking to expand your network, offer guidance, or simply meet others within the First-Gen community, we invite you to join us.

RSVP for the First-Gen Networking Mixer

Accessible Link: https://uofmississippi.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mNoXrUYAVYN0ay

Thursday, November 5th | In Living Color: Paint and Sip

Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Bryant Hall

Creativity takes center stage!

Take a break from the classroom and join us for In Living Color, a vibrant Paint and Sip experience celebrating creativity, individuality, and Ole Miss pride. Students will have an opportunity to create their own UM-inspired masterpieces while enjoying colorful mocktails, connecting with peers, and expressing themselves through art.

No artistic experience is necessary. Just bring your imagination and get ready to create!

Friday, November 6th | The Game: First-Gen Pre-Game Day Tailgate

Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Outside of Martindale-Cole Student Services 

It's game time, First-Gen family!

We're closing out FIRSTFLIX with a First-Gen Pre-Game Day Tailgate filled with school spirit, friendly competition, and community! Join us for food, games, giveaways, and opportunities to connect with fellow students as we celebrate our First-Gen community and gear up for the Rebels' upcoming matchup against Georgia.

Wear your Ole Miss gear, bring your Rebel spirit, and help us close out National First-Generation Celebration Week!

Get Involved in FIRSTFLIX

National First-Generation Celebration Week is about more than attending events. It's about celebrating our stories, building meaningful relationships, and recognizing the strengths and contributions of our first-generation community.

We invite all students, faculty, staff, and campus partners to join us throughout the week as we celebrate the experiences that make our First-Gen community extraordinary.

The First-Gen Evening of Excellence is Flagship First-Gen's annual recognition ceremony celebrating graduating first-generation undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. This special event honors the accomplishments, perseverance, and contributions of first-generation graduates while bringing together students, families, faculty, staff, and supporters to celebrate this significant milestone.

Save the date for the 2026-27 school year's celebration on April 26, 2027.