Clayton County Public Schools visits Clayton State University for their First-Generation College Tour Day
(April 28, 2026) - Clayton County Public Schools recently brought first-generation students from every level of learning from elementary, middle, and high schools across the Clayton County area to the Clayton State University campus for an all-day interactive experience to learn more about college resources for first-generation students and their families.
While on campus, the young students participated in discussions about Admissions prep, Academic Support resources, Financial Aid resources, and ice-breaker engagement events with members of the Iota Rho Chapter of Alpha-Alpha-Alpha (Tri-Alpha) First-Generation Honors Society, our Laker Navigators, our Laker Orientation Leaders, and various members of Student Organizations and Fraternities/Sororities.
"Having the opportunity to speak to first-gen students and families during their college discovery process allowed for increased understanding of the excitement and fears surrounding taking that next step,” said Karrina Moen, Program Manager, Center for Academic Success. “Through dynamic conversation, we were able to provide tools and resources to ensure families and students that we will support them along the way."
As an institution built on social mobility, Clayton State University is all about extending a culture of care and support to current and future Lakers. Our definition of social mobility is a change in social status that aims to improve socioeconomic outcomes. This includes creating opportunities for enhanced job prospects, better healthcare, affordable insurance, retirement benefits, and better housing options.
“Speaking with parents about how to support their first-gen students’ college journey led to meaningful conversations and a shared sense of excitement, shared Jennifer Goss, Special Services Coordinator, Center for Academic Success. “It was inspiring to see such strong commitment to student success and to be part of an event that empowers families for this important step.”
As an institution, Clayton State is dedicated to expanding access and building a campus culture where first-generation Lakers and their families feel supported, connected, and celebrated. Through programs, partnerships, and engagement opportunities, we empower our students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
“It was very rewarding to welcome so many young, intelligent, and enthusiastic students from around the county to our campus and to provide information that they can use to help plan for a future in higher education,” said Matthew Trice, Senior Academic Advisor, Center for Advising & Retention. “It was especially satisfying to share my story with this group of students, because in addition to working at Clayton State, I am also a proud product and graduate of Clayton County Public Schools. Being able to host this event served as a full-circle moment for me to give back to the community that raised me.”