This article was originally written for FirstGenerationStudent.com, now a part of ImFirst.org.
As a first-generation college student coming from a family of farmworkers, my journey has not been easy; but, it’s definitely one that has been worthwhile. I am currently attending California State University San Marcos, majoring in sociology and women’s studies. The main reason I decided to go to college is that I saw the hard work my father put in for many years in the strawberry fields of Fallbrook, and noticed that despite all of his hard work, we were still struggling to survive. My father and mother always encouraged me to pursue an education. They left their home country of Mexico so that our family could have a better way of life. By obtaining an education, this better life is becoming my reality.
The support and opportunity that my parents provided for me is a testament that regardless of race, class, gender, religion and other differences, we all have the ability to succeed in college. The support of others has made the difference in my life because I truly have been able to value and exert my full potential. People who I had never met were willing and eager to help me navigate on the pathway toward a college education; for this reason I continue to mentor incoming students in hopes that they can take advantage of the same resources that I have benefited from. Programs at the university geared toward first-generation college student and migrant students were there for me every step of the way.
As a freshman in college, one of the best decisions I made was to get involved. I was able to find a group of like-minded students who were there to support me, as well as work collectively on community projects that focused on access to education. This opened doors to many other opportunities, such as lobbying multiple times in Sacramento and Washington, DC, attending national leadership conferences and meeting some of the most amazing individuals that have influenced my life; it also helped me grow as a leader and a professional. While learning and growing, I have never forgotten about my community and I go back every summer to work on community projects and help students through the college process.
I am currently applying to law school. While this can be an intimidating process, I know that with a law degree, I will be able to help my community even more. We are given the responsibility of helping the communities we come from, as well as mentoring those who come after us. California State San Marcos has given me everything I need to grow and prepare for the future. I encourage future students to find the college that meets their needs and to take advantage of all the opportunities that come their way. While there are many obstacles that stand in the way, continue to break those barriers and create a story of success.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” – Nelson Mandela