The First Generation Student Club at William Paterson University brought students together for a lively and welcoming event centered on connection and community.
The club hosted a First Gen Speed Friending, Musical Chairs Edition, an activity designed to help students introduce themselves and meet new people in an engaging, low pressure setting. By combining movement with conversation, the event encouraged participants to step outside their comfort zones while building meaningful connections.
Organizers said the goal of the event was to highlight the importance of first generation students carving their own paths and making the most of their college experience. The club itself was founded to foster a close knit community for students who are the first in their families to attend college, offering a space where members can feel comfortable, supported and understood.
Saimya Bush, a sophomore social work major and the club’s vice president and programming chair, emphasized the broader impact of being a first generation student.
“I paved the way for myself, and not just for myself, but people that are under me, as far as my siblings, my younger cousins,” Bush said. “I hope that everyone knows that being a first gen is not what you make it, but how you make it, paving your own way, making your own experiences, making the best out of any situation.”
Juliana Pierre, a sophomore social work major and public relations chair, said the group aims to build an intimate campus community.
“We basically wanted to form an intimate community on campus where people can come and form connections, hang out and introduce themselves to new people,” Pierre said.
Tyanna Mosby, also a sophomore and PR chair, highlighted the importance of connection among students.
“To be able to connect with other students is definitely important,” Mosby said. Reflecting on the event’s lighthearted competition, she added, “Winning feels great. I have not won in a long time, since I was a child.”
Ja’Shawn Robinson, a junior majoring in secondary education and history, said he attended to support a resident and engage more with the first generation community.
Sabrina Perez, a resident assistant and nursing major, said the event gave her a chance to meet new people and step outside her comfort zone.
The event reflects the broader mission of Pioneer Pathfinders, a campus community for first generation college students navigating college life while creating their own paths. Through biweekly to monthly meetups, events and open conversations, the group works to build connection, confidence and pride in the first generation experience while offering a space to share resources and celebrate achievements.
Students can follow @wpu_firstgen on social media for updates and information about upcoming events.
