University of North Texas 
The end of each semester is always filled with celebrations for graduating students. Among these was the Graduation Celebration that UNT’s First-Generation Success Center and the Emerald Eagle Scholars Program hosted in April.
For these students, graduation is a milestone that holds even greater meaning. First-generation students, whose parents did not complete a four-year college degree, are often the first in their family to earn a degree. For students in the Emerald Eagle Scholar Program, which provides access to higher education for academically talented students with greater financial need, their dream of a college education has become reality.
“We felt it was important to offer the space to highlight their achievements and spend time with their family and friends,” said Taylor Mireles, Emerald Eagle Scholars student services coordinator.
Sponsored in partnership with Capital One as part of their Impact Initiative, the Graduation Celebration featured keynote speaker Rosa Esponda, a senior business banker at Capital One. Esponda, who was also a first-generation college student, spoke about the importance of professional growth and the search for your “dream job.” She also offered advice on navigating the professional landscape as a new graduate.
“As you step into this new period of your life, carry the experiences you have learned throughout the years and know that there will be many more to come,” said Esponda. “Welcome those lessons, because those are the experiences that will help guide you in the future.”
Attendees were also given the floor to speak during the event, with graduates sharing how their UNT experience and support from family impacted their journey. Family and friends took the opportunity to congratulate graduating students and recognize the impact of their achievement. Graduates also had an opportunity to take a commemorative photo with UNT’s mascot, Scrappy.
“Students have told us that their last semester feels like a sprint and that graduation day can feel rushed and a bit surreal,” said Katie Hermes, FGSC student services coordinator. “This event is a chance for our students to pause and take a moment to celebrate themselves and their accomplishments.”
Nearly 70 graduates were celebrated during the event, which was made possible by Capital One’s continued support for first-generation students at UNT. This was the second year that the Graduation Celebration was held.
