First-generation students find safe space

On the first Thursday of every month, the Sociology Club at Sonoma State holds the First-generation College Student Conversation series. A first-generation speaker is usually present and discusses a variety of issues including social issues and politics. 

This week, things were a little more casual. The meeting room, Stevenson Hall 3900, was filled with paint supplies in preparation for the meeting. Students gathered around the tables ready to paint and socialize with each other. It was nearing the end of the day, the room in the new hall looked over Sonoma Mountain with the sun slowly dimming the outside surroundings. The setting was very relaxing and welcoming.

Greeting fellow students was Treasurer of the club, Matt Jacobs, as well as the President of the club, Angelina Torres who are both sociology majors. They explained that the guest speaker fell through for the week so they wanted to take this chance to unwind, socialize and paint. The students in the club were very welcoming and overall, contributed to a positive group environment.

According to their page on SSU’s website, the club aims to, “create awareness of the discipline of sociology, facilitate social interactions within our department, promote social justice, encourage community involvement, and student activism.” The club does cover some socially heavy topics because of the scope of study, so students had a lighter week with painting being on the agenda.

Matt Jacobs, a fourth year sociology major, said, “Sociology tends to have a lot of heavier subjects so we like to have a chance to unwind.” Students work very hard to be in a certain position, but first-generation students have it even harder, he added.

Most of the time was spent painting and getting to know some of the members of the club and what they want to do with their major, but a lot was learned about the First-generation College Conversation series.

Sitting down with the President Angelina Torres, she explained the most enjoyable part about the First-generation College Conversation series, “The best part is that it’s relatable. I am a first-generation student and I enjoy giving people hope. Hearing stories from other first-generation students that succeed gives me hope.” She added that they discuss people’s stories, have mental health check-ins, open discussions, and general ideas. 

The next first-generation speaker will be on April 6. Speakers are explained to be very successful and inspiring, so if you are a first-generation student, or any student that needs motivation, this event could be for you.

If an interest is gained in the club, positions for club president and treasurer are open for the 2023-2024 school year. The conversations and closeness gave the impression that this was a close group of people that lifted each other up. While the first-generation speaker wasn’t present, a lot was learned about the mission they’re after. Everyone is encouraged to attend.