Class of 2025
Psychology

It was very stressful at first, not having anyone around me who had a clear idea of what I was supposed to do or what to expect. Finding out I had been accepted to UP was so exciting, but it was also terrifying. Here I was going into this new experience not only for me but for my parents too. We all did our best trying to figure things out, and obviously, it did work out in the end, but it was a very confusing and stressful process getting ready for my first year. I think what helped me succeed the most was the support of both my family and the FGEN program. My family was always there to support me I n any way they could, and FGEN was there to help steer me in the right direction when I got confused. FGEN helped me explore and navigate this new educational experience, and help me meet new people along the way. They truly helped me succeed in my first year, and I do not believe I would have been as successful without them.

It honestly means a lot to me to be a part of the FGEN community. I think it helps to show people, especially young FGEN high school students, that you really can do anything you put your mind to. It shows that you don't have to come from a college-educated family in order to succeed in your own college experience. I am so honored to be an FGEN student ambassador because I will get the chance to help other FGEN students navigate their college experience, and show them the amazing community they have to help them.

My advice would be to never be afraid to ask questions. This is a confusing experience, and the best way to work through it is by asking every question. Trying to figure everything out by yourself can be very hard, and add a lot of stress to your life. Asking for help and talking to people about your struggles can help so much, and it can help show you that you are definitely not alone in having these feelings

My freshman year was rough, but thankfully I developed a very close relationship with my assistant hall director who helped me tremendously when I faced difficulties. She was always there for me to talk to when I needed it, and to recommend resources around campus. Having her as a mentor was so helpful because, without her, I would've been so lost and felt so alone. The transition to college life is so much easier when you have someone to turn to for guidance, and as a first-generation student, that isn't always your parents.

My mentor played a big role in my experience. One of the most confusing things about my experience was dealing with the financial aid process. During my first few weeks of school, I was trying to apply for a scholarship/grant, but I couldn't figure out why my application wouldn't submit. I brought this to my mentor, and it turned out that I was actually applying for the wrong one. She helped me find the one I was looking for, I was able to submit my application, and I got the grant which helped so much. Getting the grant helped relieve so much stress, and I learned that having my mentor was so helpful with anything I was confused about.

Class of 2025
Elementary Education

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?
Empowering. I am proud to be the first of many on this journey. I probably won't have kids, but I do want to pay it back and pay it forward. My story is not finished yet, but when my story is finished I will publish a book! Just know that it was a fun story.

What does it mean for your personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?
I am honored. I am representing an underrepresented community. I don't take this lightly.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?
Don't give up. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?
I feel like there wasn't one particular person that was always there. I had many people come and go from my life. So I've always been good at finding people when I need them while keeping in mind that they might not always be there. So my biggest mentor would have to be myself. I live by you can take a horse to water but you can't make it drink. Every time there was water I drank.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?
Community. Having faces that I can smile to and tell about my day has been so nice.

Class of 2026
Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college? Tell us about your story and what you think helped you succeed.

Having the honor of being the first in my family to ever attend college has been among my proudest yet most challenging moments. I had always dreamed of attending college, especially in a different state. However, it was something that proved to be far more difficult than I would've ever imagined. Although at the beginning I constantly missed my home and my family, I was able to push through and finish strong. I think what helped me be successful in my first year was the unconditional support I received from my loved ones and finding the sense of community on campus that I longed for. Joining amazing programs like FGEN helped me realize that I wasn't alone on my journey and that I had many peers who shared my struggles and could turn to for advice. Being the first of my family to attend college will never stop being difficult, yet I believe the support I receive from those around me is a large factor to my upcoming success.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

To be a part of the FGEN community on campus means to be surrounded by incredibly intelligent, supportive, and kind individuals willing to always help you out. It's a reminder that although being the first in your family to attend college is difficult, it doesn't make it impossible. It is also a beautiful reminder of how far a little bit of support can go for an individual. To be an FGEN ambassador means having the opportunity to be the person that I once needed for others. It is the ability to be an experienced individual that can provide resources and advice to someone who needs it. It is a way of expressing gratitude for all the help I once received.

What is your advice to first gen students at UP who are facing challenges?

My advice to first gen students at UP facing challenges would be to look for resources that can benefit them in finding a sense of belonging. Whether that be seeking help for mental health, joining clubs to make friends, and to never shy out of asking for help. One of the most hurtful things you can do to yourself is try to figure out everything on your own, it can be very mentally draining, and there is nothing wrong with prioritizing your mental health and peace of mind.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience? Why or how?

I did have a mentor who was really good and gave me advice and resources, although because of how bad my mental health was at the time I was very distanced from everything I didn't really create an intimate relationship.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

The most helpful resources during my UP experience include FGEN because it's something I'm really proud to be a part of, my professors, and the friends I have made. My friends were probably the biggest help when it came to improving my mental health because they were the ones to always encourage me to take a break and go out to have fun. My awesome professor Molly Matty was always available to listen to my concerns, regardless of whether they were academic or not. She always took the time to reach me, which I will always appreciate.

Is there anything else you wish to share that has not been mentioned or asked?

I would like to say that I was someone who really struggled to adjust to UP, and although I don't think I will ever become 100% accustomed to it, I do feel comfortable with the progress I've made. I strive to share my experience with others, so they know it's okay to be vulnerable and that there is no shame in asking to be helped.

Class of 2025
Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Being the first in my family to attend a four-year university has been a blessing and a challenge. I am proud to be able to pave a new path for myself and my family members, but it definitely didn’t come without difficulties along the way.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

Being an ambassador has been my way of trying to give back to the community that has helped me grow so much.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

My biggest advice is to ask for help. It may not always feel like it, but it is perfectly fine to admit when you’re struggling and to try and find the resources to mitigate the struggle. I found that when I spoke up, other people also felt similarly.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

I’ve had many mentors during my time at UP, but my most memorable mentor was Rosie Ith, who was my FGEN mentor when I was a freshman.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

A helpful resource on campus has been the career center. With their help, I have created a strong resume, a LinkedIn account, and a handshake account that keeps me in the loop for jobs and internships. 

Class of 2027
Secondary Education and English

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Being the first person in my family to go to college was overwhelming. It was about the time I learned that my mom would be there to support me through my process of applying for college and FASFA, but that I would need to learn how to do this myself with no advice on how to do it or if it was even possible. Overcoming the thoughts that I would likely come to college was the biggest thing I struggled with and I still sometimes don’t think being in college is real. My family helped me be grateful for the amount of support that they gave me through the beginning of the process but as a human, I had many times where I compared myself to others who had parents who had gone through the college process or even older siblings that had gone to college or that it wasn’t the first time I had even heard the word FASFA. Throughout my first year here I learned to accept that there are things that I didn’t know about the college process that I missed, like transferring my credits from high school or that there are so many scholarships. This period taught me that being forgiving to yourself through and through is the biggest thing that you can do to help yourself.

What does it mean for your personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

The FGEN program is the reason my transition went as well as it did. Knowing that there is a group of people who come with the same background and having that tight community where we all want to help each other is amazing. It was through this program that I realized that I wasn't alone and I want to be apart of that experience for new and incoming FGEN first-year students. It is unexplainable to know that I will be apart of that positive impact at UP.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

Forgiveness. My biggest advice is to learn to forgive yourself. Take the time to realize that this is your first time navigating life at this age, on this day, and going through college for the first time. It's important to be patient with yourself. Challenges are inevitable, but finding activities you enjoy and surrounding yourself with people you appreciate can make facing these challenges much easier. You don't even need to fully understand the challenge you're facing; simply acknowledging that you're going through something is enough reason to reach out for support.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

YES. I would like to shout out Haniel who is also an FGEN ambassador. He was my mentor for my first year and he was the best mentor I could have ever asked for during that beginning stage. He created a space where I never felt like no question was too dumb or helped me figure out what question to even ask in the first place. There were so many times when I felt that if I had a challenge I was facing I just had to shoot him an email and he would get right back to me with the resources I needed or he knew the answer right away. He played a great part in my experience and helped me so many times, that I would thank him for making that first year a lot smoother.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

Some of the helpful resources that I used are the Learning Commons so I didn’t fall behind in classes when I just needed that extra help in a certain part of the class and RA’s when I had a random question that needed to be answered as soon as possible or about what is going on in the dorms or around campus.

Class if 2026
Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Being one of the first in my family to attend college is extremely gratifying, yet challenging. I reflect how far I've come and how much I've grown, and I am just so grateful to have had the opportunity to pursue higher education. Of course, attending college out of state as a FGen student comes with its own hardships; I often miss home, my family, and navigating college isn't the easiest task. I am very fortunate to have such a supportive family because when I feel like I am not capable, my family is there to tell me that I am. It is my biggest goal to make my family proud, and have my parents see the fruits of all the love, support, and hard work that they showed me pay off.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

To be a part of the FGEN community means to be a part of something bigger than yourself. You are now a part of a community who you share common ground with, and also are so willing to uplift our peers. It means having a sense of belonging during times when it may feel the opposite. It's really important to have a community to anchor you through your college experience, and that is what the FGen program has done for me. I am looking forward to being a mentor and ambassador because I will be able to help students who I related to in my first year, and hopefully we can continue the cycle for many students to come.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

I think it is crucial to give yourself grace, this is a completely new experience, and it’s okay to feel lost at times. As a matter of fact, you are not the only one, there are many students who are navigating college as well. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it- there are so many resources on campus! Lastly, but something that a lot of FGen students experience, are feelings of isolation. Remember that you earned your place here, and you deserve to be here despite the hardships you may face.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

I didn't have a FGEN mentor to help guide me, but I did have faculty who I was able to talk to. Whether it was help with assignments or just someone who I could lean on when I was struggling, it was a great help. Sometimes, we forget professors want us to succeed and it's scary to get to know them, but they are always willing to help if you just talk to them.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

The most helpful resource for me was the co-pilot tutoring. I think sometimes it can be a little intimidating asking a professor for help, or sometimes you just need to be taught something in a different way. Having someone who is a peer and has taken that class help me with difficult topics, made me feel more comfortable asking for help. It gave me that extra support that I needed, and allowed me to find the root of confusion either with the tutor or later with the professor. 

Class of 2027
Nursing

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Education has always been deeply valued in my family, so they were excited when I chose to attend UP. As a first-generation student, it’s a privilege to pursue higher education and navigate the complexities of university life. Growing up in a family of seven, with my parents’ education limited to elementary school, my journey has been one of perseverance and personal growth. Yet, my family’s unwavering support provided me with the reassurance I needed during my first year, helping me overcome the initial challenges. I vividly recall my first day of college, nervous and constantly getting lost on campus but within a few weeks, everything started to fall into place. That experience underscored the importance of embracing new challenges for personal development and achieving our goals. I’m eager to continue growing, both academically and personally, and to make my family and myself proud.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

I’m grateful to be part of this wonderful community. It’s an honor to represent and support first-generation students here at UP. As an FGEN ambassador, I have the privilege of providing resources to this underserved community. I am beyond excited to be in this position, where I can assist individuals like myself who are the first in their families to attend college and begin their educational journeys.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

My advice to FGEN students facing challenges is simple but powerful: reach out for help. The college journey is full of obstacles, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed at times. However, one of the most important things I learned during my first year is that you don’t have to navigate it alone. There are always people willing to guide you, whether it’s through academic advice, emotional support, or simply offering a listening ear. Don’t hesitate to connect with the FGEN community or anyone in the broader UP network. These are people who genuinely care about your success and well-being. Whether you’re struggling with a difficult class, feeling homesick, or just needing someone to talk to, remember that you have a whole community eager to see you thrive. Another piece of advice is to constantly remind yourself that you are worthy and that you belong here. It’s common for first-generation students to feel out of place or question whether they deserve to be at a university. I know this feeling well. Whenever I found myself doubting my abilities, I made a point to reflect on the people who believed in me, my community, peers, scholarship donors, and especially my family. Their belief in me was a powerful reminder that I was meant to be here, that I had earned my place at UP. Finally, embrace the full college experience. Your time at university is not just about academics; it’s about personal growth, building connections, and creating lasting memories. Join clubs that interest you, attend events, meet new people, and step out of your comfort zone.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

Entering my first year of college, I was fortunate to have two mentors who were there for me whenever I needed support. Whether it was for academic advice or just someone to talk to, I always turned to them. Their guidance and encouragement were invaluable, and they played a significant role in shaping my college experience. My mentors are incredible people who not only helped me navigate the challenges of my first year but also inspired me to grow and persevere. Reflecting on the impact they had on my journey, I am deeply grateful for the support I received. It’s an experience that has made me eager to be that source of support and encouragement for other first-generation students at UP. I want to pay it forward and help others feel as confident and supported as I did, knowing firsthand how transformative it can be to have someone in your corner during such an exciting and challenging time.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

UP offers excellent resources, and during my first year, I found myself frequently using several of them, including the Learning Commons, the FGEN mentorship program, clubs, office hours, and campus events. Academically, the Learning Commons was the most valuable resource for me. Whenever I got stuck on a paper or my biology homework, that was the first place I turned to, and I always left feeling more knowledgeable about the topics I was struggling with. On the social side, the FGEN program was incredibly helpful, as they host many events that connect students with others who are in similar situations. 

Class of 2027
Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Being the first in my family in college was a memorable accomplishment that I will cherish forever. The feeling of pride that it brought to me and my family was motivational and even though college brought more stressors, I know this decision will be worth it in the long run. The support of my family and finding community on campus has kept me grounded in who I am and allows me to push forward.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

To be a part of the FGEN community as a student ambassador is an opportunity to be a source of support and representation for those who need it most. I understand from personal experience how difficult and confusing college can be, so being given the position in where I can offer service and help shape the college experience of new students is a privilege and honor.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

My advice to FGEN students facing challenges would be to reach out for help early on. Understand that you may not know everything and everything may not go as you expected and that is okay, there are many resources on campus to help you succeed, and I hope students will take advantage of this and find community in these resources.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

I did have a mentor my first year, and this experience really helped me feel seen and appreciated. I struggled a lot with comparing myself to my peers who might have not had the same experiences as me, so my first year I never felt like I was doing good enough academically. Although, my mentor helped me see that I am not alone and this is not the end of my story, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

Resources such as the FGEN club have been significant because it has allowed me to connect with those with similar experiences and backgrounds. Other clubs and communities such as the honors program and the Latinx club on campus has helped me find further community on campus.

Class of 2027
Marketing

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Pride, being thankful, but also feeling the pressure to do good. Pride as too being the first in my family to go to college and feel the dreams that my mom and dad wish they had. I am thankful for my family, who have not told me to give up, and who are always there for me when I need them moving forward for college. Feeling the pressure on I have to do good to make my family proud and making sure I knew what I was doing for college.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

FGEN is a community that is meant to help first students get through college, not only to help them but to hold their hand when they need someone college is not easy but FGEN as a community and me being an FGEN ambassador hopefully the incoming FGEN students know they are not alone and FGEN is there for them to hold their hand.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

Being my friends and my family played a lot with my life, my family always had my back no matter what even when life gets stressful they always told me to move forward to not give up on myself I looked up to my parents a lot because they never once stopped working they always try to provide for me and my sisters even though once they came to the US they didn't know what to do but they both found a way to make it where they are today without them I would not even be able to be confident in myself to make it to college. My friends JoAnn, Ari, Nanami, Nana, Jovie, and Craig they rode the first friends I made sense coming to UP I didn't know my way through my first college year, but they helped me get through the first year. And like my parents they never let me give up on myself.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

There is always a light at the end, but we need to not give up for that light to go off. And Echele ganas.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

FGEN has for sure helped me a lot through college a lot and they are always there for you, like where is your class, if you have a question they are always there to help you and they will always be there to hold your hand, you are never alone FGEN makes sure that you are getting the help you need.

Class of 2026
Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Being a among the first in my family to go to college is a huge honor for me. I feel the support of my family and how all the things that they have done have given me the opportunity to be here.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

Being an FGEN ambassador is such a privilege. FGEN has provided me with a great sense of community and guidance in the past so to be able to now help give that guidance to others is such a nice feeling.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

I'd say that my advice is to know that you are not alone, and you have a community here at FGEN who care about you and want to support you. Also never be afraid to ask for help, we all need it sometimes.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

I've had many great mentors in my life, and some of the mentors here at FGEN have really helped me in my academic journey.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

UP has a lot of great resourses but the clubs and peer mentors have definitely had the biggest impact on me.

Class of 2027
Cell, Molecular, and Biomedical Sciences

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Nerve-wracking. My only guidance was from the media, and we all know how accurate that can be in depicting what college will really be like. In all of the uncertainties however, I felt empowered, being the first in the family has a nice ring to it in a way, you get to in a way iron out all of the wrinkles for the next generation of students. I realized I was now setting up a future for not only myself but for those who come after me.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

To be apart of the FGEN community means giving a voice to the struggles that are usually left underappreciated or recognized. Being an FGEN ambassador allows me to give a helping hand and a voice to the incoming class that may have felt silent throughout this process. I have always been rather silent in my struggles to get here and feel embarrassed to seek help for things that appear to be easier for others. I love having the opportunity to create a welcome, open, and judgement free space for those who were in the same position as myself.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

Lead with kindness in everything you do, especially towards yourself. The first year doing anything will not be easy, its like leaning an instrument or how to draw, you need to practice to improve. Within all of that practice you also need to be mentally strong and kind to yourself to know that one day it will get easier, and you will find your way in the world. Embracing these challenges becomes more manageable when you allow yourself the freedom to make mistakes along the way.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

Yes! I've had mentors throughout high school but never a first-generation mentor. When I came to the university and paired with someone who shared many similarities with me I finally truly felt heard in my struggles. My mentor taught me how to laugh through the pain. There was no sugarcoating needed because even though it was difficult to get through my first year here, I always had a should who walked the same path.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

Making study groups to meet people, joining the UP orchestra, and going to FGEN events really helped to find a community and friendships that I hope to keep going forward.

Class of 2026
Psychology and Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

I was anxious to be the first in my family to go to college and though I found it to be difficult at first, it has been a wonderful experience. It was incredibly challenging to navigate the university and resources on my own, and at times I felt further behind the other students. But with time I found a loving community full of support and I am eternally grateful for all the people who have held my hand through it all. My parents are especially my biggest support because they motivate me every day since I know I'm going to college to live out the dreams they never had the chance to complete.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

As a freshman, I found that most of my struggles had to deal with anxiety and feeling lost or alone. Being a first-generation student sometimes means not understanding the “correct” way to go about college life. In all honesty, there is no right way to go through college and we all need help but sometimes first-generation students need a little bit more support. It can be scary to reach out for help so I want to be someone that alleviates that stress or anxiety for other first-generation students. Being an FGEN student ambassador means creating a safe and comfortable space for first-year students to go to. College is an intimidating environment so when you talk to someone that has been in your shoes, it can help you feel like you do belong here.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

I think that one of the biggest challenges that first-generation students face is feeling alone or like they don't belong in university. Doing challenging things alone is a difficult and isolating task so always do your best to reach out for support, give yourself grace, and understand that you don't have to have everything figured out in your first year.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

Yes, I reached out to the FGEN program in the middle of my freshman year and after I got paired with a mentor I felt like I had a place in this university. I felt less alone and it was nice to simply have someone like me to talk to.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

I think that the Health and Counseling Center has been a wonderful resource for me. One of the main reasons is because they offer wonderful counseling support. I will always recommend my peers to schedule a therapy appointment, even if you don’t feel like you need one, it is nice to have a consistent person who knows nothing about you to talk about the challenges of college and life with. Another meaningful resource for me has been office hours with my favorite professors. Once you get into the groove of college and find a few professors you really like, I highly recommend going to their office hours. Having a little chat with your favorite professor can strangely be a very healing experience.

Class of 2026
Biology and Spanish

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Scary. Even though I had help from counselors in my school and family support, I was scared that I did not know all the things I needed to know about college to feel confident. However, being among the first in my family to go to college also meant a type of responsibility--the responsibility of trying my best so I can help other future FGEN students.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

Being part of the FGEN community, a community that helps other students navigate college whether they may be a few or many miles away from home is gratifying. This is because it's nice to be in a community that specifically focuses on how to make the college experience for an FGEN student the smoothest possible when it comes to outlooking resources. I find joy in being able to help other students knowing that I am at least able to help someone and be the person of trust to a student, moreover, being the person I needed when I first started college to an FGEN student. As a FGEN student ambassador I feel hopeful that I will be able to mentor FGEN students into being more comfortable in a new campus.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

For every barrier you may face, there is always some kind of solution or change of perspective. Take a deep breath, have a clear mind when stressed and always try your best even when you feel like giving up. There are many people on campus who are here to support you in all types of ways so DO NOT BE AFRAID TO REACH OUT to anyone.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

A mentor did play a role in my experience and it was so helpful because I was able to ask the questions I was afraid to ask to someone who worked here at UP. They made me feel more comfortable and confident in my decisions.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

OFFICE HOURS! Please go to office hours when you are feeling confused in class, I would spend a lot of time in my professors office hours but it would pay off! The tutoring center is an amazing place, and don't feel scared by going to the tutoring center, it does not make you less smart for going (that's at least how I felt at first), but after going one time I started going more frequently because of how helpful it was.

Class of 2026
Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college?

Being among the first in my family to go to college was a profound and transformative experience. It came with a blend of excitement and nervousness, as I was venturing into unknown territory without a family blueprint to follow. This milestone was both a source of immense pride for my family and a significant challenge for me personally, as I had to adapt to a new environment while balancing the expectations of setting a positive precedent. It required a lot of self-reliance and determination, and it often felt like I was navigating a path that was constantly evolving. The experience taught me resilience and the importance of paving the way for future generations in my family.

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador?

Being part of the FGEN community is deeply fulfilling for me, as it connects me with others who share similar backgrounds and experiences. This community offers a sense of belonging and mutual understanding that is incredibly validating. As a FGEN student ambassador, I have the opportunity to give back by helping fellow first-generation students find their footing, share valuable resources, and navigate their college experiences. It means a lot to me to be in a position where I can offer support and encouragement, creating a welcoming environment where others can thrive and feel empowered.

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges?

My advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges is to remember that it’s okay to seek help and use the resources available to you. The college experience can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Build a support network by connecting with peers, professors, and mentors who understand your journey. Take advantage of campus resources like academic advising, counseling services, and student organizations that cater to first-generation students. Embrace a growth mindset—viewing challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Persistence and resilience are key, and every obstacle you overcome will contribute to your overall success.

Did a mentor play a role in your experience?

Absolutely, a mentor played a crucial role in my college journey as they were able to relate to my experience as a first generation student. They provided invaluable guidance, sharing their own experiences and offering practical advice on navigating both academic and personal challenges. Their support went beyond just academic counseling; they helped me build confidence, develop strategies for success, and stay focused on my goals. Having someone who believed in my potential and offered a listening ear made a significant difference, helping me to stay motivated throughout the semester.

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience?

Several resources have been instrumental in my UP experience. Academic advising has been essential for planning my coursework and staying on track with my academic goals. The tutoring centers have provided critical support for challenging subjects, offering personalized assistance that has been incredibly helpful. Additionally, the FGEN network itself has been a cornerstone of support, offering a community of peers who understand my unique challenges and triumphs. Campus events, workshops, and counseling services have also played significant roles in helping me balance academic demands with personal well-being, ensuring a holistic and fulfilling college experience.

Class of 2025
Nursing

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college? 

It is an exciting experience and it makes me proud of the accomplishments I have made so far. This is the first step in a milestone that I will look back at the path my parents have sacrificed to make. 

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador? 

When I first came to UP, I was unaware of the opportunity to have a mentor. I would say my first year could have gone more smoothly and I wouldn’t be hesitant to ask for help, especially asking a peer mentor. I often found it intimidating to reach out to professors. Now that I am an FGEN ambassador, I have the opportunity to guide first-year students to the resources the school offers and practice asking for help. Many times, students need a little push to build their confidence in using their voices. 

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges? 

Do not be afraid to reach out for help. You may have heard this many times before, but it is an obstacle FGEN students face on a daily basis. Why? Because we have no idea what we are doing! All this is a new experience and you will need help to adjust, modify and to move forward. 

Did a mentor play a role in your experience? 

My mentors are my older siblings as I am the fourth person going to college in my family. During the process of applying to colleges, my siblings would give me advice and would comfort me when I felt as if I was doing everything wrong. They may have not been able to answer all my questions, and yet the key factor my siblings played was my support system. 

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience? 

I benefited the most from going to office hours. It was not until my third semester that I took the opportunity to schedule an hour to meet with my professor every week. Sometimes I would ask the same questions and the professor would happily answer it. Do not hesitate to ask “dumb” questions, there really isn't such a thing, it is only a mindset.

Class of 2026
Civil Engineering

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college? 

I felt pretty excited but at the same time scared, since it was a mixture of thinking about meeting new people and taking classes for what I want to study, to then lost on where or what is what. Seeing my parents be happy for me and that I came to this point of being the first in going to college, I felt a little pressure but more that I feel proud and thankful for what they did for me. 

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador? 

I'm part of a community/family that goes through the same struggles I felt when coming to college. Instead of doing this on our own, I have the FGen community in helping when things go south and I have no idea what I'm doing. It's better to struggle together than alone, as we can help each other and go through this together and come back stronger. Being an FGen student ambassador, I can guide or just overall be that mentor to get that advantage and be more comfortable in college, whether it is knowing who to ask for help or just overall being able to thrive and face the challenges that we face as First-generation students. 

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges? 

Ask ask and ask for help. We sometimes have that feeling or mentality where we need to struggle and do things on our own, since it's both us and our families first, asking for help is the best thing to do. I had that mentality of not asking and figuring it out on my own, but it just made things more stressful and complicated, once I asked my community for help, not only was my question answered but also I got guided in a better direction so ill avoid future problems. 

Did a mentor play a role in your experience? 

My high school counselor David, since he really helped me decide the options and where to look at when deciding what school I wanted to go through. Not only was he helping me with college related problems but overall wanted to make sure that I was doing ok and helped me get references such as scholarships and connecting me with other resources to get financial help. He really was a role model and a person that I want to be when I'm playing this amazing role as a FGen ambassador. 

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience? 

The Career Center has been a significant help for me this past year and will be from now on, as they helped me build resumes, cover letters and most importantly helped me find internships to apply for the summer. As not only do they help with applying but they look into the company you want to work for and guide you as your applying, that is making a cover letter, and etc.. Overall they help you in building and creating connections for potential interviews and hiring processes in a job/internship.