Program Creates Memories for First-Gen Grads and Gives Commencement Regalia a Second Life

Commencement is a thrilling moment for UCSF graduates as they celebrate the completion of an arduous academic journey with grandeur and pageantry. The initial chord of “Pomp and Circumstance” announces the procession of graduates – adorned head to toe in traditional graduation garments – signaling the end of a significant achievement and the beginning of an exciting career in the health sciences.

However, some graduates may not have the funds to purchase the required gowns, caps, and hoods to participate in commencement. Traditional regalia can carry a hefty price tag, reaching up to $925, which can add to the often-mounting financial burdens students face. This is particularly true for those who are the first in their families to earn a college degree. But thanks to a unique collaboration between the UCSF Alumni Association and UCSF First Generation Support Services (FGSS), 35 first-generation students will proudly walk across the stage this year in regalia provided at no cost by fellow alumni through the UCSF Alumni Graduation Gown Donation Project.

“Our alumni have shown a remarkable willingness to participate in the project,” said Tiffany Lam, FGSS director of student success. “This year, we’ve more than doubled the number of loaned gowns. This project is so meaningful to our first-gen students. It gives them the opportunity to fully celebrate the moment and create a cherished lifelong memory.”

Naznin Jahan, who will receive her doctoral degree in biomedical sciences, was emotional when she tried on her loaned gown. 

“UCSF was my dream, and the gravity of living it hit me when I put on the gown and stood in front of the mirror. It felt unreal,” Jahan said. “I sincerely thank the alum who donated the gown and helped me experience the joy of this accomplishment of my life.

“I believe that first-gen students face unique challenges,” she continued. “While we embark on this journey of being the first of our family to pursue higher education, our road to success comes from many trials and errors without familial guidance. Many of our mentors and colleagues find it difficult to empathize with our unique circumstances, making the first-gen experience in higher education particularly isolating.”

Approximately 30% of UCSF students identify as being the first in their family to attend college, and this year, 189 will receive diplomas. FGSS ensures that each one receives a First Gen stole and cord.

Sonja Swenson, MD ’20, was inspired to donate her regalia to the program to pay it forward and put her passion for recycling into action.

“Medical school is extremely expensive, and I know many students face financial stress at graduation,” Swenson said. “I felt it was important to try to offset any costs of graduation so medical students could focus on celebrating this huge achievement without additional stress about covering the cost of the regalia.

“As a pediatrician, I am very concerned that climate change is the biggest health threat facing our children,” she continued. “I’d been hoping to find a good opportunity for the regalia to be reused since it was still in excellent condition! I was happy to participate in the program and put the gown to good use.”

As awareness of the project continues to spread, Lam envisions building a robust inventory of gowns to support future first-generation students as they celebrate their transition from education into practice. If you are interested in supporting the UCSF Alumni Graduation Gown Donation Project, please email Lam at [email protected].