Mercy Celebrates National First-Generation College Student Day

On Tuesday, November 8, Mercy is joining with institutions of higher education from around the country in celebration of National First-Generation College Student Day. The annual event takes place on November 8 to honor the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Mercy recognizes the many individuals in its diverse community who are first in their families to attend college. Their drive, tenacity and myriad perspectives are vital to the College’s growth, provide rich learning environments for students, and enhance the cultural vibrancy of Mercy’s Dobbs Ferry, Bronx and Manhattan Campuses.

Moreover, first-generation students at Mercy, like Adriana Flores ’25, are an example to their families and their community that college is possible, “I want to help my mom in the future and show my younger sister that she can go to college too.”

Leah Leavy '23, is appreciative of the support programs in place at Mercy that help her navigate the college experience, and help her make the dream of a higher education degree possible. "It's nice having a PACT mentor here because that helps a lot. Everybody here is just really supportive and they're like family."

For Marcela Guerrero '26, a biomedical sciences major who aspires to be a doctor, the prospect of advancing her family's status motivates her to work hard. She believes that first-generation students share this feeling of responsibility, and thus take college seriously. 

Click the above video to learn more about Flores, Guerrero and Leavy.