Film screening, panel discussion bring student issues to light

Marli Coonrod and Shelby Morrison are like many other Missouri State freshmen. They go to class, hang out with friends and study. But they share a unique title with a small population of students: they are first-generation students — or the first of their families to attend college.

On Saturday, March 28, they will join MSU President Clif Smart in a panel discussion exploring issues facing first-generation college students. The discussion will be accompanied by a film screening of the award-winning documentary “First Generation.” The film’s director, Adam Fenderson, will also take part in the panel.

Leading up to the event, Coonrod and Morrison talked about their experiences as first-generation students so far.

Marli Coonrod

Freshman
Major: Public relations
Hometown: Nevada, Missouri

What inspired you to go to college?
Knowing that I would be the first of my family to have this opportunity. There was no way I was going to let it slip through my fingers. Ever since I stepped foot on campus that first week of classes, I have been determined to get involved and make every minute count. I think another factor that kept me pursuing to attend college is my younger sister. I feel that if she sees me excelling and growing so much here, not only in the academic aspect but also through leadership in my organizations, then she will want to follow in my footsteps and attend college.

What challenges have you faced as a first-gen student?
Coming into college as a first-generation student was terrifying because I had a great amount of the weight on my shoulders — from applying for scholarships, filling out the FAFSA and making deadlines for the admissions process. My parents didn’t know how to help me, as they also have busy lives, so I had to step up and take responsibility. Even though this was tough and contributed stress to my life, I wouldn’t change it because it has helped me learn, grow and prove to myself that I can be the one to change this all for my family by graduating college.

What advice would you give to future first-gen students?
Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. I think that was my biggest downfall. I tried to do everything on my own, and it was unnecessary because there are so many people out there who want to help and make sure you succeed. Also remember that you are not alone. Nearly 7,000 of Missouri State undergraduates are also first-generation students. Don’t ever give up or get down on yourself thinking no one understands how tough it is. Trust me, there are so many of us first-generation students that do. You’re going to do great things out in the world, and make your family proud!

Shelby Morrison

Freshman
Major: Cell and molecular biology
Hometown: Wood River, Illinois

What inspired you to go to college?
The biggest inspiration to further my education was my high school English teacher. I had the privilege of being her student for three years, and she always told me (and my classmates) that we were all totally capable of getting a college education, even if that meant doing it on our own. She reassured me time and time again that I needed to follow my dreams and better myself the way I wanted to do it, no matter how much money it may cost. Without her, I wouldn’t be here at Missouri State.

What does being a first-generation student mean to you?
Being a first-generation student means facing some different challenges than some of my classmates. The biggest problem I’ve faced is the financial aspect. I have had to pay for college solely on my own, so I had to take out quite a bit of student loans just for this year already. But it also means making a better life for my family and myself, and making them proud.

What advice would you give to future first-gen students?
Definitely do your research. It’s always better to know “too much” than to not know about a form, a deadline or an event that could be very beneficial to you. Don’t be scared; this is a huge, brave step in your life and it will be worth it, even on the tough days. Never lose hope and always think positive!

Event details

Date: Saturday, March 28
Time: Film screening, 7 p.m.; Panel discussion, 8:45 to 9:45 p.m.
Location: Plaster Student Union Theater  — 1110 E. Madison Avenue, Springfield, MO
Parking: Available in Lot 24 (access off National Ave, one block south of Grand Street) or Bear Park North parking garage next to Juanita K. Hammons Hall for the Performing Arts — take MSU Shuttle to PSU.
Sponsored by: MSU’s College of Arts and Letters and the Office of the Provost