Stevenson’s College Career Center (CCC) hosted the first of a four-part series of informational nights to support students who are advancing to be the first in their families to attend a four-year college. The first session for this series was held on Oct. 9, with over 300 families in attendance.

These sessions are open to all students and families, with various 45-minute sessions allowing families to choose topics based on their unique requirements. The subjects covered include financial aid, scholarships, career exploration, and navigating the college admissions process. 

Counselor Jaison Varghese one of the primary coordinators of the First Generation Nights, who himself carries personal experiences as someone who has moved from India. He is a part of the First Generation Student committee, which he said meets often to prepare for each event. 

“We have a committee consisting of counselors (generalists and post-secondary), social workers, and other folks,“ Varghese said. “We look at the needs of the students and see, especially from a college perspective, what gaps we can fill so they can understand the process.”

Varghese said the challenges that first-generation students and their families face are challenged as the U.S. college process can be confusing and difficult for those unfamiliar with it. Typically, the sessions feature guest speakers or college admissions officers to provide parents with additional insight. These sessions are presented via Zoom and in-person sessions. 

“This is an organic program; we are still evolving,” Varghese said.

He added that forty-six families came in person, and there were over 290 families that attended over Zoom. This hybrid format enables the event to accommodate a larger audience within both spaces. 

On the first night, the committee included senior-only sessions and a four-year college overview aimed solely at upperclassmen. The committee ensures its events are scheduled in a way that aligns with the college application cycle so seniors receive appropriate guidance in a timely manner. 

Since Medha Koneru ’26 parents attended college in India she would be a first-generation student. She noticed how dissimilar her experiences are compared to her classmates, whose families are more familiar with the U.S. college system.

“The admission process for colleges here is so different from any other country,” Koneru said. “People who have parents that went to college here are able to get advice earlier, and have the opportunity to prepare themselves.”

Koneru, along with Sophomore Blake Zhou* ’27, said that these events are important for alleviating the pressure many students face due to these differences. Zhou believes these events allow students to gain accurate information and feel more confident in their decisions.

“First Generation nights are important for eliminating misinformation,” Zhou said. “There are many misconceptions regarding the number of AP classes, and necessary academic classes we should take.”

With around 43 percent of students being first generation, the committee looks forward to another successful night taking place on Nov. 7. Beyond providing information, the meetings serve as a space for families to connect.

“Being able to know others in the same situation allows me to be able to go talk to them and form connections,” Zhou said. “I don’t have to worry about if it’s gonna sound wrong, or be totally incorrect, it’s reassuring to know you’re not the only one.”

*Name changed to protect anonymity