From April 3 to 5, students from Stockton University’s First-Generation Student Organization, First Ospreys, attended the 2025 First Generation Student Career Conference at Florida International University in Miami, Florida. The annual conference provided a growth-based environment for first-generation students from across the United States to network and hear from successful first-generation keynote speakers.

The conference was created by the Circle of Change organization, and was led by international speaker and leadership coach, Dr. Joshua Fredenburg, and professional development consultant, Tish Norman. Also in attendance were keynote speakers from the Walt Disney company, including as Chief Diversity Officer, Tanisha Agramonte, and Executive Producer and Showrunner, LaNee Griffin.

Students were organized by their areas of study to engage in Career Empowerment Speakers and Fireside Chats. These allowed students to hear from professionals in their field and learn networking, industry, and interviewing skills. Panel speakers answered student questions and networked personally with them as well.

The high-energy conference kept students engaged with dances, games, interactive panels, and giveaways with gift cards, cash, and scholarships. Participants were also encouraged to network with one another and build connections with fellow first-generation students. 

“I think that it was very inspiring to be around a bunch of people in the same space that in one way or another have a commonality, which is being first-generation,” stated First Ospreys President, Nicole Brown, who attended this year’s conference. “We all have different experiences, but we can come together and support and lift one another and feel inspired.”

For more information on First Ospreys and upcoming events, check out their page on OspreyHub.