Office of Biology Doctoral Education

F1RSTS Program

An initiative designed to empower students and build community within the Biomedical Division.

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F1RSTS Program

An initiative designed to empower students and build community within the Biomedical Division.

F1RSTS graphic that says F1RST GEN PROUD The BioMed F1RSTS program values and appreciates the unique perspectives and backgrounds of individuals at Brown University. Our mission is to empower all students and build community by providing opportunities for collaboration, networking, and professional growth within the academy. By drawing on the rich experiences, insights and strengths of our first-gen community--as well as those of all students, faculty, and alumni--we aim to create a culture of success where we can connect, develop a sense of belonging, and grow together.

How to Join the F1RSTS

This initiative is designed to address the needs of F1RSTS students using a multi-pronged approach including:

Professional development workshops
Casual networking events
Mentorship opportunities

By incorporating the experiences and knowledge of F1RSTS peers, postdocs, faculty and alumni, we can support graduate students in their development and ensure student success.

Upcoming Events

Faculty F1RSTS … Unscripted

The BioMed F1RSTS Initiative will be hosting a new community-building series, “Faculty F1RSTS … Unscripted”. Dr. Matthew Fuxjager, PhD, will reflect and share his PhD journey as a first-gen student. This unstructured conversation will give you the opportunity to learn from a faculty member who experienced many of the same questions and challenges that you might be facing.
“Unscripted” will take place in person on October 27 from 3:30-4:30, and light refreshments will be served. This event is open to everyone who identifies as first-generation. We hope that you will join us for an afternoon of mentorship, conversation, and community.
Register here for Faculty F1RSTS

BioMed F1RSTS Community Lunch

BioMed F1RSTS hosts an hour dedicated to enjoying a meal with your peers, building belonging among other first-generation PhD students, and expanding your network in casual conversation and community building in a low-pressure environment.

Past Events

Demystifying the PhD

This virtual workshop is designed to offer guidance and help with demystifying your PhD journey as an entering PhD student. Alycia Mosley Austin, Associate Dean of Diversity and Inclusion, and Interim Associate Dean of Academic Affairs here at Brown, will lead the discussion about what the PhD experience is really like–including expectations, milestones, and the hidden curriculum.

Navigating your Qualifying Exam

This student panel was led by current BioMed PhD students from various graduate programs who recently completed their Qualifying Exam. The discussion offered the opportunity for 1st and 2nd year PhD students to learn from their peers and help to prepare them for their Quals. This panel will be offered annually during the spring semester.

BioMed F1RSTS Peer Speed Networking event

Participants had the chance to chat with peers in short, structured conversations — perfect for building connections and learning from others’ experiences. No previous networking experience is required. The goal of this event was to give all our F1RSTS a chance to practice networking on a smaller scale, and to encourage communication outside of their own program.

Contact Us

For more information on the F1RSTS Program, please reach out to our office.