The First-Generation Student Success Office welcomed more than 100 students to its Sapphire Masquerade Ball on Nov. 6 from 7–10 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom.
Held during National First-Generation College Celebration Week, the event celebrated students who are the first in their families to attend college and recognized the challenges they overcome in pursuing higher education.
Students filled the UC Ballroom as assorted desserts and refreshments were provided, along with music and live performances. Prizes such as university gear and Orpheum tickets were also rewarded to attendees who were present.
Students dance together during the Sapphire Masquerade Ball on Nov. 6 in the University Center Ballroom.
Many guests arrived in formal attire and decorative masks to mark the occasion. Among them was Madison Prescott, a 19-year-old economics major who took a year off after high school before enrolling at the University of Memphis.
“After graduating high school, I took a year off to decide what I wanted to do,” Prescott said. “I decided to come to the University of Memphis because I wanted to become the first in my family to get a degree and hopefully inspire others in my family to get higher education as well.”
Although motivated to earn her degree, Prescott admitted she is skeptical of what her life could look like after she graduates. “I know I’m years from graduating but I always see how hard it is for people to become employed once they graduate,” she said. “That was one of the doubts I had before enrolling here, but I want to use the time I’m here to learn new things and build a foundation that I can use once I’m finished.”
While most guests were dressed to impress, freshman art major Jeremiah Willis chose a more casual look, arriving in a mask and basketball shorts. Willis said he was hesitant about college at first but ultimately decided to pursue his passion.
“Because my parents didn’t go to college, I was hesitant at first,” said Willis. “I’ve always loved to draw so pursuing my passion further was something I was interested in after I graduated high school."
Willis added that balancing academics and creativity has not always been easy.
“With everything that college brings, it’s been a struggle at times to keep up with all my assignments,” he said. “Since I decided to start this college experience, I want to finish it and earn my degree in four years.”
The Sapphire Masquerade Ball offered a night of celebration, connection, and encouragement for first-generation students as they continue to navigate their college journeys.
Carter Burton can be contacted at cmbrton4@memphis.edu.
Students dance together during the Sapphire Masquerade Ball on Nov. 6 in the University Center Ballroom.
