CORNING, N.Y. -- SUNY Corning Community College (SUNY CCC) celebrated National First-Generation College Celebration Day with a campus gathering recognizing the accomplishments and experiences of first-generation college students.

The event brought students, faculty, and staff together for lunch and a panel discussion centered on the first-generation college experience. Participants shared personal stories and discussed challenges they encountered along their educational journeys. The discussion featured College panelists:

  • Moderator - Audra Abeel, first-year Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) student
  • David Burdick, Executive Director of Auxiliary Campus Services
  • Julie Croteau, Math Professor
  • Steph Sample, SUNY Reconnect student and Technical Assistant in the Financial Aid Office
  • Flo Root, Addiction Studies student
  • Tyrell Rivers, Student Government Trustee

For SUNY CCC student Eliza Sedlak, being a first-generation college student represents an opportunity to accomplish something no one else in her family has had the chance to do. “Being a first-generation college student, to me, means that I’ve grasped an opportunity no one in my family has had the chance to, and then I flew with it,” Sedlak said.

Other students shared advice for those beginning their college journeys. “Don't wait till the water warms up, just jump right in,” said Hollie Swarthout. “If you keep waiting it often never seems like the right time.”

Steph Sample reflected on overcoming self-doubt while balancing college coursework, work, and raising three children. “I am most proud of overcoming my self-doubt and proving that I can truly succeed in tough college courses,” Sample said. “Balancing a heavy course load, work life, and single-parenting three children while keeping my grades up has shown me just how strong I really am.”

Melanie Moon, Coordinator of Career and Transfer Services and first-generation college student, also encouraged students to take advantage of the support and connections available to them. “Connect with others and ask questions. Be inquisitive,” Moon said.