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Since 2018, our annual National FirstGen Day celebration has grown to celebrate our FirstGen students, faculty and staff. Selected as a member of FirstGen Forward, Biola is among an elite group of schools that strive to serve college students who are the first in their families to ÌÒ»¨ÊÓƵ from a United States higher education institution.

This year, Biola joins hundreds of higher education institutions to recognize the achievements of the FirstGen community! Our theme for the 2025 celebration is Rooted & Resilient - Jeremiah 17:7-8, which promises that those who trust in the Lord will be like a tree planted by water, with roots deep enough to not fear heat or drought. We have events happening all month:

• FirstGen Image of God Chapel: Monday, November 3 from 9:30-10:20 a.m. from 9:30-10:20 a.m. | FirstGen students and faculty will share their stories in light of their FirstGen journey and theme.

• National FirstGen Celebration: Wednesday, November 5 from 12-3 p.m. at Fluor Fountain | Join us in celebrating FirstGen College Students with free boba for the first 100 people, spin the wheel for special swag such as T-shirts & FirstGen pins, write a thank you note to a mentor and more. Biola students, staff and faculty are all welcome to join!

• Noche De Cine: A Million Miles Away: Wednesday, November 5 from 6-8 p.m. on Metzger Lawn | Watch "A Million Miles Away an inspiring biographical film about José Hernández, a first-generation college ÌÒ»¨ÊÓƵ who traveled to space. Free popcorn, churros and cup of noodles! Bring your blankets to watch under the stars on the lawn!

• FirstGen Career Connections: Monday, November 17 from 6-8 p.m. in Kim Dining Room | Connect with FirstGen professionals from law, health science, ministry, psychology, education and other backgrounds! Free pizza, salad and drinks!

Please join us in celebrating the resilient and incredible journeys of first-generation students, staff and faculty for this special annual celebration! Let us know you're coming by submitting your