Master's Programs
First-Gen at Brown
What is First-Gen?
First-Gen is defined at Brown as "a student whose parents or guardians did not complete a four-year college education or any student who self-identifies as having minimal prior exposure to, or knowledge of, navigating higher education”.
First-Gen Voices
As we celebrate First-Generation Day, the Division of Master’s and Professional Programs highlights the journeys of first-generation faculty and staff. Carmen Rowe, program coordinator, reflects on being the first in her family to attend college — sharing how she navigated higher education without a roadmap and why she’s passionate about supporting first-generation students as they find their own paths.
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Master's Programs
First-gen voices: Lyubov Niemann on navigating without a blueprint
As we celebrate First-Generation Day, the Division of Master’s and Professional Programs highlights the journeys of first-generation faculty and staff. Lyubov Niemann, director of finance and administration at the School of Professional Studies, shares her story as a first-generation immigrant from Kazakhstan and reflects on navigating higher education without a roadmap and building more inclusive pathways for others.
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As we celebrate First-Generation Day, the Division of Master’s and Professional Programs highlights the journeys of first-generation faculty and staff. Brittney Yandle, advising coordinator for Brown’s online graduate programs, reflects on being the first in her family to attend college, sharing the challenges she faced and the importance of providing accessible support for first-generation students.
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Celebrating First-Gen Day at Brown
Join Brown’s U-FLi Center and the Division of Master’s & Professional Programs on November 5, 2025, for a celebratory luncheon at the Faculty Club honoring National First-Generation College Celebration Day.