The Promising Futures Program is committed to providing students with a sense of community and academic achievement with our slate of programs and events. These are open to all first-gen students throughout their time at Chapman. Promising Futures is proud to host the following events:
Summer Bridge Program
Summer Bridge is a pre-semester orientation that is designed to support your transition to the university and introduce you to the larger first-generation community. The program consists of two days of virtual and two days of in-person programming. Summer Bridge activities include:
- Workshops from campus support services including time management, academic resources and where to find them, financial aid, move in, and more.
- Insight and tips from current first-gen students as they guide you through campus life.
- Community-building activities like easter egg hunts, scavenger hunts, and mingling sessions during meals.
- Parent/guardian session on what to expect and how to stay engaged during your student’s time at Chapman.
This event is for incoming first-generation college students at Chapman University and is run by current staff and first-generation students. Chapman defines a first-generation college student as one whose parents(s)/ legal guardian(s) have not completed a bachelor's degree at a four-year college or university.
Click here to learn more about the Summer Bridge Program
DEI Homecoming Barbecue
Promising Futures invites all our first-gen students, families, alumni, and staff to take part in the annual DEI Homecoming Barbecue. The DEI Homecoming Barbecue is your opportunity to mingle with all members of the diverse student network at Chapman. Wear your Chapman swag and come celebrate with music, food, entertainment, board games. You’ll also have the opportunity to win prizes like shirts, mugs, portfolios, stickers and more!
Don’t forget to join us after the barbecue for the Homecoming Football Game at Wilson Field!
First-Gen Graduation Ceremony
In addition to the University Commencement ceremonies, we invite you to an exclusive and heartfelt First-Gen Graduation Ceremony. This intimate gathering is tailor-made for you and your loved ones to celebrate all your accomplishments during your time at Chapman.
Each of our students has the opportunity to be individually honored for your unique journey. Get your name called and your degree shouted out, congratulate your friends, and enjoy the culmination of all your hard work. Participants will also receive a special Chapman First-Gen stole to wear at your commencement ceremony. You deserve it!
First-gen students of all education levels are welcome to this event – undergraduate or graduate. Remember to wear your regalia!
If you’re interested in volunteering to be a part of this event, please contact Araceli Martinez for more information.
First-Generation College Celebration
Join Promising Futures and colleges across the United States as we celebrate the presence and experience of first-generation college students, faculty, and staff on campus. All first-gen students, advocates, and allies are invited to take part in our annual breakfast, study sessions, and meal groups.
Learn more about the history of First-Generation College Celebration
Ways You Can Celebrate on Your Own
- Share your first-generation story or listen to the stories of other first generation students and their college journey.
- Facilitate listening sessions by administration, faculty, and staff about first-generation students’ experiences and needs on campus.
- Connect with other first-gen students, faculty and staff.
- Incorporate first-generation faculty experiences into classroom discussions.