On September 18th, our First Generation Blue Streak Ambassador, Happy Kiondo, Class of 2028, hosted one of her first events at the Center for Student Belonging (CSB). Her program called Tea Party was focusing on designing mugs with learning how to use Cricut and Heat press machines, while building community.
“Students who attended were able to create and press their own mug designs. Since this was my very first event, I went into planning with low expectations. I thought only a few people would show up because I didn’t advertise much.
However, the event turned out much better than I expected! The CSB was filled with excited students, and before I knew it, we had run out of mugs, and more people kept showing up.
Although the event was a success, I realized there was still room for growth and improvement. The mugs needed extra time to cool down after using the heat press, which caused longer waits than I planned. The process could have been smoother if I had conducted more research beforehand and enlisted additional helpers for the event. Through this experience, I learned the importance of support and preparation. This overwhelming turnout was an immediate boost to my confidence, proving the idea's value and my ability to deliver. I learned I must trust my vision and potential moving forward.”
“Through this experience, I learned the importance of support and preparation. This overwhelming turnout was an immediate boost to my confidence, proving the idea's value and my ability to deliver. I learned I must trust my vision and potential moving forward.”
At CSB team, we truly enjoyed Happy’s program! Her personal experience and the organic formation of a peer-supported community provide a powerful, tangible model for how first-generation college programs can foster the confidence and belonging essential for student persistence and success.
Be on the lookout for our upcoming events on the week of November 3rd, focusing on First Generation College Celebration Week!
