MOSES LAKE — More than 60 students from Big Bend Community College’s TRIO Student Support Services and TRiO Upward Bound programs, along with Washington State University Upward Bound came together last week to celebrate National TRIO Day — a nationwide event honoring the achievements and potential of first-generation students.
The three programs collaborated to host a day of inspiration, connection, and hands-on activities designed to recognize the unique strengths of TRIO students while encouraging them to continue pursuing their educational goals.
The first-gen leadership training event featured keynote speaker Tamam Waritu, an educator and nationally recognized first-generation advocate. Waritu shared personal stories from his own journey as a first-generation student, highlighting the barriers many TRIO students face and the resilience required to overcome them. His talk centered on perseverance, family motivation, and the power of education to shape a new future.
To illustrate the complexities and unpredictability of life, Waritu introduced a wordless maze activity. Students worked together to solve the puzzle, demonstrating that life’s challenges are navigated one step at a time, and often with the support of others. Waritu emphasized that mistakes and setbacks are not failures, but opportunities to learn and grow.
He also addressed the topic of imposter syndrome, explaining why these feelings frequently arise among first-generation students and offering practical strategies to build confidence and self-belief.
Throughout the event, students participated in multiple guided activities led by TRIO staff, which kept the event engaging, interactive, and uplifting. These discussions and collaborative exercises helped students reflect on their strengths, explore their goals, and connect with peers from other TRIO programs.
“We were honored to learn from first-gen educator Tamam Waritu, who reminded us that resilience, courage, and community shape our path forward. From navigating life’s maze to overcoming imposter syndrome, our students walked away empowered and inspired,” said TRIO staff. “TRIO works, and our students prove it every day.”
National TRIO Day is celebrated by federal TRIO programs across the country each February to raise awareness about the importance of educational opportunities for low-income and/or first-generation students. The annual celebration was started in 1986 through a congressional resolution.
The Upward Bound program at Big Bend has been on campus since 1967, making it one of the oldest in the nation, and the Student Support Services program has served BBCC students for more than 30 years.
