Events and Programs

The Connect Mentorship Program (known by students as Connect) is a year-long mentorship program at SMU. There are two parts to the program: the Connect Institute and Peer Mentorship. Connect helps incoming students become effective, successful, and engaged members of SMU through peer mentoring. Mentors help incoming students develop personally and academically by introducing them to a variety of resources, learning opportunities, and co-curricular experiences offered on campus.

First-Gen Fest is SMU's celebration of National First-Gen Day, November 8. The main purpose is to celebrate first-gen students and their journey. While celebrating with music, food and giveaways, students also have an opportunity to connect with different departments, organizations and students. Our goal is for students to leave feeling proud of themselves, supported as a first-gen student, and informed about the resources and opportunities on campus. 

Graduation stoles have long been worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies as a symbol of personal and academic achievement. At the SMU, we are proud to provide stoles to all of our undergraduate first-generation graduating students, to help them mark the significant accomplishment of reaching graduation day. All first-gen students are eligible. Join us for an annual event as we celebration graduation with a reception with graduates and families. 

Our mentorship mixers are offered at the beginning of each fall and spring semester and serve as the kickoff to our Peruna Mentorship Program, which connects first-generation students with First-Gen Allies (supportive faculty and staff). At each mixer, students have the opportunity to connect, get to know faculty and staff, and begin building relationships in a relaxed and supportive environment. Following the event, students are paired with a faculty or staff mentor through the Peruna Mentorship Program, where they receive guidance, encouragement, and resources throughout the semester. Together, the mixers and mentorship program foster meaningful relationships that empower first-gen students to thrive at SMU.

A reception at the start of spring to connect with first-gen peers and hear from a campus partner.

The welcome reception occurs within the first two weeks of classes each fall semester. We welcome new and returning first-generation college students to the Hilltop. Surrounded by supportive faculty/staff, we enjoy food and drinks while students are given opportunities to make connections and learn about campus resources.