First Generation Achievement
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Ï㽶ֱ²¥) recognizes the unique journeys of first-generation learners. The university is committed to fostering an environment where these students are supported in achieving academic and professional success.
Defining the First-Generation Experience
A learner at Ï㽶ֱ²¥ is first-generation if neither parent or guardian completed a bachelor’s degree in the United States.
A learner at Ï㽶ֱ²¥ is first-generation postbaccalaureate if neither parent or guardian completed a postbaccalaureate degree in the United States.
A learner at Ï㽶ֱ²¥ is First-Health if neither parent or guardian completed a postbaccalaureate health sciences degree in the United States.
Programming Information
Offered in November 2025
The First Generation Success Navigator Micro-Credential is conferred by the Office of the President at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (Ï㽶ֱ²¥) and is open to any current learner or team member. To be awarded this Level 1 credential, participants will attend at least three of the four sessions (detailed below) in addition to receiving a score of at least 50% on the associated post-session quizzes delivered via email.
Learners and team members who complete the micro-credential series will also be provided with a limited-edition First @ Ï㽶ֱ²¥ t-shirt.
Micro-Credential Sessions:
Navigating Higher Education's Hidden Curriculum
November 6 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Facilitated by: Derrick Ramsey, Ph.D., M.Ed., Senior Director for Digital Learning & Microcredentials, Texas Tech University Health
Sciences Center
Session Objectives:
- Identify examples of hidden curriculum across academic, professional, and social settings.
- Describe how the hidden curriculum can affect first-generation learners’ academic and career experiences.
Smart Money Moves: Financial Workshop
November 10 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Facilitated by: Deidra Satterwhite, M.A., Assistant Director for Student Life, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
& Rachel Branch, International Student Coordinator, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Session Objectives:
- Define foundational financial literacy terms relevant to higher education and early career stages (e.g., budgeting, interest).
- Identify at least two financial decision-making strategies (e.g., saving approaches).
Managing Stress and Building Resilience in Health Sciences Education
November 12 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Facilitated by: Kristie Collins, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Managing Director, Ï㽶ֱ²¥ Counseling Center
Session Objectives:
- Recognize common stressors and emotional wellness challenges in higher education and professional training.
- Recall at least two practical strategies for stress management and emotional resilience.
Ï㽶ֱ²¥ Alumni Panel: Foundations of Networking & Professional Achievement
November 17 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Panelists: Sixtus Atabong, BS, MS (Health Professions '02 & '05)
Vivek Gupta, Ph.D. (Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences '10)
Tiffany Miller, MSN, RN (Nursing '22)
Amber Pastusek, M.D., MSHA (Medicine '07 & Health Professions '21)
Greg Thompson, MBA (Health Professions '02)
Learn More About the Panelists
Facilitated by: Danielle Sork, Director of Alumni Engagement, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Session Objectives:
- Summarize key lessons learned from the professional journeys of first-generation alumni of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center.
- Recognize strategies for initiating and sustaining professional connections with alumni and peers.
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