First Generation Achievement
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) 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 TTUHSC is first-generation if neither parent or guardian completed a bachelor’s degree in the United States.
A learner at TTUHSC is first-generation postbaccalaureate if neither parent or guardian completed a postbaccalaureate degree in the United States.
A learner at TTUHSC 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 (TTUHSC) 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 @ TTUHSC t-shirt.
Micro-Credential Sessions:
Navigating Higher Education's Hidden Curriculum
November 6 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Register Here
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
Register Here
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
Register Here
Facilitated by: Kristie Collins, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Managing Director, TTUHSC 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.
TTUHSC Alumni Panel: Foundations of Networking & Professional Achievement
November 17 | 12:00 - 1:00 PM
Register Here
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 Here
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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