Although I was an honors student in high school, I didn’t plan on going to college. Instead, I meant to follow in my mother’s and my sister’s footsteps, and along with my AP English and French classes, I studied secretarial science in my school’s vocational program. After I landed a summer secretarial job, however, I quickly realized that I would not be happy in this occupation; so, during my senior year, I scrambled to look into going to college. My family, while supportive of me as a person, did not understand my desire to go to college, but I became determined to pursue a job – a career – that I would find fulfilling. So, with the guidance of my teachers, I took the required standardized tests, I applied for and was accepted into a state college, I won a number of scholarships, and I became a first-generation college student. [Read more…] about Dr. Billie Follensbee, Department of Art and Design

My first semester as a first generation student in a nutshell: I came to college (SMSU) to “get away” from home. I had no clue what I didn’t know. I was an introvert and went home every weekend. I didn’t ask for help. I didn’t get involved on campus. I did not know that I could advocate for myself. I didn’t know how to study. [Read more…] about Kim Roam, Childhood Education and Family Studies

First-Generation, is it taboo or an opportunity? I’m First-Gen and I say opportunity! Growing up I faced hurdles but each hurdle contributed to who I am today. Both my parents worked in the factory, more often than not working 6 days a week in all seasons just to make ends meet. If I had shown interest in college I guarantee my parents would see to it the funding would be there but that would mean more hours in the factory. As my high-school years approached I knew college wasn’t an option but that wasn’t a goal for me at that time. I was eager to support myself and, in my eyes, no longer be a financial burden to my parents. Maybe then they wouldn’t have to work the long hours in the factory. My school days came to an end, my friends went off to college, and I kept working my full-time job. [Read more…] about Karen D. Eisman, Department of Information Technology and Cybersecurity

There’s a lot of social, cultural knowledge that is assumed when you enter college. This can feel overwhelming at times for all students, but especially for first-generation college students. This can also lead, sometimes, to feelings of not belonging, what is sometimes called “imposter syndrome,” something I know all too well. [Read more…] about Dr. Julia Troche, History Department