NCC’s first-generation program, Cardinal First, is celebrating 10 years this November. To celebrate, the program is hosting a series of events called Decade Fest, or Celebrating 10 years of Cardinal First. These events will be hosted November 4-8.
What is Cardinal First?
Cardinal First is the first generation college student program at North Central College. The program is dedicated to providing a welcoming and supportive community for first-generation college students at NCC. The program has been running since 2014 and has since grown.
Being a first-generation college student means that neither parent completed a four-year degree. For many of these students, college can be a difficult time, especially without the guidance of a parent who has gone through it. As of 2023, nearly 40% of undergraduate students are first generation, according to Forbes. That is why first generation programs like Cardinal First are so beneficial.
10 years of Cardinal First
November 4-8 is Cardinal First Celebration Week, which happens every year, though this year is different. With it being the 10-year anniversary of the program, the events of First-Gen Celebration Week are on another level.
So many amazing events occurred over Celebration Week for first gen students all over campus. Monday and Wednesday included more chill and laid back events. The first of which was a de-stress and study session on Monday from 10-3pm. This included snacks and music to help students relax during this busy time of the semester. Wednesday was donuts and career discussions with the Center for Career and Professional Development.
Tuesday and Thursday were the higher energy events. Tuesday included Letter Board Photos, Spin it to Win it, and Lawn Games with food for first-gen students to enjoy. Thursday held the highly anticipated dance party with Kickin’ it with Kevin. This is Marissa Gaigalas’, the associate director for first generation, favorite event.
Being National First-Gen Celebration Day, Friday included the annual First-Gen group photo in the shape of a “10” this year. Due to alumni donations, for the first time a free hoodie was given to all students who participated in the photo. Cardinal First also hosted cookies and cocoa on Old Main Lawn later in the day.
Why is 10 years so important?
Any milestone year is going to be important for an organization, and 10 is an especially important one. Although milestones are great, there is more to this week of celebration than the number of years the program has been around.
The program has grown so much since the time it began in 2014. Over that time, the program has developed to include events and workshops for the individual years of school. For example Sophomore Supper, Junior Penultimate and Senior Homestretch did not become established until 2016.
Marissa Gaigalas said that 10 years of the program means so much to her even though she has not been a part of it for all 10 years.
“Even from when I started to the present day, the program has changed so much, but for the better and it’s nice to see the growth too,” said Gaigalas.
Cardinal First Decade Fest/Celebrating 10 Years of Cardinal First is truly a momentous event for NCC. It also serves as a reminder of just how important first generation college students are. There is always support on campus for these students.
