At The University of Texas Permian Basin, 51% of students are first-generation college students. With this in mind, the University works to make higher education more attainable for those who are the first in their families to pursue a degree.
Through informational events on topics like financial aid, guidance for students navigating the admissions process, and a streamlined application experience through platforms like Common App and ApplyTexas, the University helps remove barriers to college access.
“UTPB attracts many students that are the first in their families to attend college. We know that by making college more accessible and affordable, students can not only get to college, but graduate,” Becky Spurlock, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, said. “Our career outcomes data shows how in-demand our graduates are and the salaries they can command - making the decision to get a college degree that much more appealing. So, we take the extra steps to make sure college can work for all students, so they can pursue their dreams.”
These efforts continue to open doors, leading to the success of many first-generation college students.
“The atmosphere here is welcoming and supportive, and it truly feels like a place where anyone can find their place,” first-generation student Cesar Vasquez said.
Cesar is a senior at UTPB pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management. His parents did not attend college, but his sister did and has helped guide him through the experience. Even with that support, the journey can come with challenges for first-generation students.
At UTPB, Cesar quickly found a community that understood.
“I first learned about the first-gen student organization during a campus tour in high school. I knew right away that it was something I wanted to be a part of,” Cesar said. “I attended my first meeting alone and introduced myself to a room full of strangers. Only a few weeks later, I was on stage with them in a lip-sync battle.”
Cesar has served as Vice President of the organization for the past year. Through his leadership, he hopes to continue growing the organization into a place where students feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed.
