Advancing First-Generation Student Success
Established in 2019, the Center serves first-generation students across Texas A&M University and works collaboratively with faculty, staff, colleges, schools, and campus partners to strengthen student success from admission through graduation and beyond.
Mission
We empower first-generation Aggies to succeed through innovative programs, scholarships, resources, and partnerships that advance academic achievement, leadership, and graduation. Through evidence-informed practices and campus collaboration, we help students navigate college and thrive at Texas A&M University and beyond.
Vision
To be a nationally recognized leader in first-generation student success, advancing the college experience through innovation, collaboration, and a culture of excellence. We envision a future where first-generation Aggies thrive throughout their academic journey, graduates prepared to lead and serve, and contribute meaningfully to research, innovation, and their chosen fields.
Frequently Asked Questions
Being first-generation is something to celebrate—you are building on your family’s story while creating your own Aggie legacy. A first-generation student are students whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) have not earned a bachelor’s degree. However, we understand that this definition may not fully account for the rich experiences of a first-generation college student (e.g., parent(s) may have completed a degree non-traditionally later in life or obtained a degree internationally) and we welcome first-generation students who believe will benefit from our program and services. For any questions or more information, please email the Routh First-Generation Center at firstgen@tamu.edu
Where is the Routh-First Generation Center located?
Hotard Hall is located on Ashbury Street (the same street that the "Welcome to Aggieland" water tower is located). It is between the North Gate Post Office Building and Neeley Hall.
Refer to: Aggie Maps if specific directions are needed!
What is the difference between a first-generation Aggie and a first-generation student?
In other words, all first-generation Aggies are first-generation students, but “First-Generation Aggie” reflects their connection to the Texas A&M community.
I just realized that my status on Howdy does not say that I am a First-Generation Student, how can I change this?
The center does not manage requests or inquiries regarding a change of first-generation status on the Howdy portal.
Please note that any status changes can usually only be made prior to a student's first term as an undergraduate student at Texas A&M University through the AIS portal.
Am I still considered a first-generation student if other family members such as siblings, step parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, went to college before me?
Yes! You are a first-generation student if your parent(s) did not complete a four-year college or university degree. Your older siblings or other family members who have been to college can be a great resource as you navigate your own college journey.
How do I know if I am a first-gen student?
For prospective students, please check with your admissions counselor.
For incoming students, if you are not sure, the Routh First-Generation Center welcomes any first-generation students who believe will benefit from our program and services.
My parents always said, 'Your inheritance is going to be the education we're able to provide you.' They wanted me to break the generational cycle and follow my dreams.
My decision to attend Texas A&M has never been something I regretted, mainly due to the sense of community I have found here.
Meet the Routh First-Generation Center Team
Leticia Palomin, Ph.D.
Director, Routh First-Generation Center Office for Student Success- lety-palomin@tamu.edu
- 979-458-6407
DoraIsela Martinez
Program Manager, Routh First-Generation Center Office for Student Success- doraisela.martinez@tamu.edu
- 979-458-9142
Theondre Peoples
Program Manager, Routh First-Generation Center Office for Student Success- ptheondre@tamu.edu
- 979-458-6111
Kahkasha Wahab
Program Coordinator II, Routh First-Generation Center Office for Student Success- kahkasha@tamu.edu
- 979-458-6790
Maira Muñoz
Program Coordinator II, Routh First-Generation Center Office for Student Success- mmunoz_30@tamu.edu
- 979-458-6037
Together with incredible campus partners, we’ve built a nationally recognized model grounded in collaboration, innovation, and the belief that no student should ever have to navigate college alone.
Meet the First-Gen Ambassadors
Lori Avalos
Student Ambassador - Program Lead, Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessLori Avalos, Class of 2026, is a Biological Agricultural Engineering major at Texas A&M University. Her favorite Aggie tradition is Aggie Ring Day, a meaningful celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the lifelong connection shared by the Aggie community.
Tre Bartee III
Student Ambassador - Marketing, Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessTre Bartee III, Class of 2028, is a Biomedical Engineering major at Texas A&M University. His favorite Aggie tradition is Aggie Football, where the energy of the 12th Man and the spirit of the Aggie community come together.
Talley Brown
Student Ambassador - Stewardship, Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessTalley Brown, Class of 2027, is a Visualization major at Texas A&M University. Her favorite Aggie tradition is Aggie Ring Day, a meaningful celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the lifelong connection shared by the Aggie community.
Olga Burgos
Student Ambassador - Stewardship, Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessOlga Burgos, Class of 2029, is a Public Health major at Texas A&M University. Her favorite Aggie tradition is Midnight Yell, where Aggies gather to practice yells, build excitement for game day, and celebrate the traditions that make Texas A&M unique.
Keionna Herrera
Student Ambassador - Outreach & Communication, Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessKeionna Herrera, Class of 2028, is a Communication major at Texas A&M University. Her favorite Aggie tradition is Aggie Ring Day, a meaningful celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the lifelong connection shared by the Aggie community.
David Martinez
Student Ambassador - Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessDavid Martinez, Class of 2028, is an Animal Science major at Texas A&M University. His favorite Aggie tradition is Saw ’Em Off, a spirited expression of Aggie pride and rivalry that brings energy and excitement to game day.
Jayla Ochoa
Student Ambassador - Outreach & Communication, Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessJayla Ochoa, Class of 2029, is a Nutrition major at Texas A&M University. Her favorite Aggie tradition is meeting Miss Reveille, a special experience that reflects the spirit, pride, and traditions of the Aggie community.
Alexa de la Torre
Student Ambassador - Routh First-Generation Center, Office for Student SuccessAlexa de la Torre, Class of 2027, is a Psychology major at Texas A&M University. Her favorite Aggie tradition is meeting Miss Reveille, a special experience that reflects the spirit, pride, and traditions of the Aggie community.
