First in the Pack

First in the Pack are students who are the first in their family to attend college; a new experience for everyone in your immediate family. As a parent of a first-generation college student, you have every reason to be proud of this milestone. 

Approximately 25% of NC State’s student population are first-generation college students. Additionally, there are many faculty and staff who are proud to be the first in their families to earn a college degree and are glad your student is here! 

At NC State, we recognize that as a parent, you are an integral partner to your student’s success. As key partners in your students’ education, your support, guidance and resourcefulness are essential pieces of your student’s college success, and the Office of Parents and Families Services is here to provide you with some resources needed to navigate this journey alongside them. 

Also, it is important for you and your student to be aware of the variety of community-building programs through TRIO and the multicultural Student Affairs for first-generation college students as these resources will empower and ensure their academic and social success. 

Additionally, we collaborate with campus partners to celebrate the success of NC State’s First in the Pack.

Special Events

Each year, the Office of Parents and Families Services in collaboration with TRIO Programs hosts honorary events for these students and their families celebrating their achievements and contributions to the university community.

This year we are excited to extend this collaboration to include Athletics and PNC Arena as we come together for NC State’s first-ever, First in the Family Day honoring and celebrating all first-generation Wolfpack students and their families.

Save the Date

We cordially invite all incoming first-generation students and their families to join us for an exclusive welcome reception during move-in weekend.

First in the Family Welcome Reception
Saturday, August 19
11:00 am – 1:00 pm (EST)
Talley Student Union

This event is casual. Lunch will be provided to registered attendees.

This drop-in reception will uniquely serve students and families by: 

• providing a meet-and-greet opportunity with many of the campus programs that are critical to the success of first-year students;
• introducing notable opportunities available to NC State students;
• highlighting our local Very Important Parent (VIP) discount program partners;
• and of course, giving Wolfpack Families the all-important opportunity to meet and engage with one another.

There is no cost to attend but we do ask all families to please complete this RSVP form by Thursday, Aug. 3, so that we may plan accordingly.