Raise Your Pick Giving Day 2025

With more than half of UTEP's student population being first-generation college students, UTEP is dedicated to ensuring that they have the support that they need to be successful throughout their higher education journey. Giving to First-Generation Initiatives provides specialized support, scholarship funds, and mentorship engagement that will cultivate a culture of care for first-generation students.

For many first-generation college students at UTEP, earning a college degree is an awesome achievement for themselves and their entire families. However, despite their strong commitment to achieving a bachelor’s degree, students who are the first in their families to attend college often face more cultural, academic and financial barriers than other students do on their path to graduation.

To address the challenges faced by first-generation students, First-Generation Initiatives at UTEP focus on students’ diverse backgrounds, strengths, and skillsets to help them achieve their dreams of a college education. Your support on Raise Your Pick Giving Day will provide funding for initiatives such as:  

• Wraparound services, including tutoring, advising, coaching, and mentoring
• Participation in conferences, study abroad, internships and research opportunities
• Connections to first-generation peer leaders, instructors, mentors, advisors, and alumni

Student Affairs is also seeking support for the Stronger Together Fund for student emergencies and the UTEP Food Pantry. Click the buttons below to learn more: