WHAT DOES BEING A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT MEAN TO YOU?
"Being a First-Generation student makes me feel proud of myself. Going into college completely blind was difficult, but now, thanks to the wonderful friends, faculty and staff that I have met here at Tech has pushed be to thrive in college. Seeing how far I have come is inspiring, and I still have so much room to grow!"
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN AS A FIRST-GEN AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
"My biggest challenge as a First-Gen student was knowing absolutely nothing about college. I had so many questions, and I didn’t know who to ask to get them answered. Thankfully, I met the First-Gen office and the support that I received has changed my life.."
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN INCOMING FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT?
"Don’t be afraid to ask questions! It’s okay to be lost or confused, but know that there are so many students and staff that are here to support you!"
WHAT DOES BEING A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT MEAN TO YOU?
"Being a First Generation student to me is a big thing, I am breaking a generational curse of not furthering my education. I also am inspiring my younger brothers to go to college and do whatever they want to in life."
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN AS A FIRST-GEN AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
"My biggest concern was being 3 hours away from home. The best way to overcome homesickness is to GET INVOLVED in different organizations and find your home away from home."
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN INCOMING FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT?
"My advice to incoming freshman is to come to college with an open mind and get out of your room, discover the new you!"
WHAT DOES BEING A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT MEAN TO YOU?
"School defined my identity as I aimed for perfection and approval, typical of a first-generation college student. The pressure was everywhere, though never explicitly stated. My family expected me to graduate from ATU, but I misunderstood this as an academic quest to be the best. Burnout loomed. My mom, sensing my anxiety, reminded me that her primary wish was for me to be happy and healthy, not to excel at all costs. I realized that being a first-generation student meant more than a perfect GPA; it meant taking care of myself. Now, I seek balance and support, remembering that my family’s dreams are rooted in my well-being and academic achievements."
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN AS A FIRST-GEN AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
"Around half of college students today are first-generation students, and research shows we bring unique strengths like higher college satisfaction, increased learning gains, and resilience. However, we also face a range of challenges. Academically, we may arrive less prepared and need help navigating the complex academic system. Socially, we experience more isolation and may confront stigma and discrimination due to our minority or lower socioeconomic status, impacting our mental health and academic performance. However, as first-generation, we preserve and accept the challenge. I have done this by seeking guidance from academic advisors and mentors, actively participating in campus events to combat social isolation, advocating for
inclusivity, developing resilience, and pursuing support from peers and family. Recognizing that setbacks are part of the college experience, first-generation students should approach these challenges with an open mindset and an understanding that seeking help is a sign of strength."WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN INCOMING FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT?
"My advice to incoming first-generation students would be to embrace your unique journey and seek support when needed. Connect with academic advisors, mentors, and first-gen student groups for guidance. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and access campus resources. Develop strong study habits and time management skills. Prioritize your mental well-being and engage in campus activities. Your path may have challenges, but remember, you have the strength and resilience to succeed. You belong here, and your education is a powerful tool to shape a better future for yourself and your family."
WHAT DOES BEING A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT MEAN TO YOU?
"Being a first-generation student to me means accepting the resources that are out there for students such as myself and learning to guide others such as family, friends, and anyone who also wants to pursue a higher education. This degree is not just for me, it is for my mamá, papá, and my siblings all of whom have encouraged me to never give up and been there to support my dreams every step of the way."
WHAT WAS YOUR BIGGEST CONCERN AS A FIRST-GEN AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME IT?
"Not knowing how to apply for scholarships, learning how to balance my life living away from my parents, and most of all how to fill out FAFSA, are all concerns I have had to overcome as a First-Gen. Showing support for other first-gen students and at the same time, allowing myself to learn, to teach others how to apply for scholarships, the FAFSA, or even how to fill out forms, and how to make new friends that also push each other to study and pursue our dreams are all ways that have helped to overcome these concerns that I know a lot of First- Gen students have."
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO AN INCOMING FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT?
"Just turn it in. That is the best advice someone gave during my freshman year, and it has stuck with me through the years. It is what has shaped the way I look at determination and grit. It means that anything is better than nothing at all. Just a little bit of effort will get you going. For example: maybe a form is stressing you out, if you turn it in then you have the opportunity to get feedback or maybe you did it right! Instead of letting the helplessness overcome you, putting one step forward will help get you where you need to be. Just turn it in."
