New Affinity Group 'I'm First' Launched in SIUE University Housing

New Affinity Group "I'm First" Launched in SIUE University Housing

September 9, 2024, 3:31 PM

Southern University Illinois Edwardsville University Housing is excited to announce the launch of "I'm First," a new housing affinity group created to support first-generation college students. The group was the idea of Bailey Bible, a Housing Resident Assistant, who dedicated significant time and effort throughout academic year 2023-2024 and summer to bring this initiative to life. Collaborating with Prairie Hall Community Director Ka-La Harris and Evergreen Hall Community Director Au'Janee Lewis, Bible has established a welcoming and supportive community tailored specifically for first-generation students.

"I'm First" is a Housing Affinity Group with the mission to welcome and support first-generation students within University Housing. According to the National Association of Student Affairs Personnel Administrators (NASPA), a first-generation college student is defined as someone whose parents did not complete a four-year degree. Understanding the unique challenges these students face as they start their college journey and navigate campus life, "I'm First" aims to ensure that first-generation students have a dedicated space to learn, engage and connect.

The group held its first meeting on Monday, August 26 in Prairie Hall.

Bible stated, "The idea of I'm First started because I saw the need for this community. I am a first-generation student and have firsthand experience of how this impacts a student. Coming into SIUE, I was part of the Summer Success Program which is a program that assists first-gen students transitioning into freshman year to set them up for success. After that, I worked in first-year housing as an RA for two years and connected with several first-generation students. Housing had other affinity groups that celebrated identities, so I knew Housing was the place for this space."

"I'm First" will continue to hold meetings and activities throughout the semester, focusing on fostering a sense of belonging within SIUE and University Housing. The group will provide access to campus resources and build connections that support the unique needs of first-generation students.

"I'm First" is one of four housing affinity groups in University Housing. The other three groups are Brother 2 Brother, Sister Circle, and Kaleidoscope. Each affinity group is designed for residential students who are part of these communities. Visit the housing affinity groups information page for opportunities to become involved.

PHOTO: Inaugural I'm First presentation at Prairie Hall