#ImFirst

by Celia Hernandez, Illinois State University, '23

Being a first gen student is such a unique and terrifying experience. It’s one that’s filled with uncertainty and worry but also with pride and self-confidence. Being first gen for me is being able to take pride in my work at school in terms of both...

Leveraging Support: 2 of 7 Things I’ve Learned in College

by Kaelyn Hicks, Worcester Polytechnic Institute, '22

There is something so isolating about struggling in college. Sure, no one is perfect, and the occasional slip ups are expected, but persistently struggling in college is often a lonely experience. Between the “maximum productivity” work culture that glorifies working...

Change is Required for Growth

by ADaja, Washington University in St. Louis, '22

The last semester of my undergrad career has officially begun (albeit while temporarily conducted through a computer screen). I guess a part of me is supposed to feel really ecstatic to have made it as far as I have. And I’m certain that below the ball of anxiousness...

First Gen College Student and First Gen American Intertwine

by Yessica Flores

When reflecting and processing the motivation I have had for pursuing higher education prior to high school all the way to my final year of college, I have realized that only looking at the fact that I am a first-generation college student is not enough to fully...

Ode to College

by Alexa Rodriguez, Wellesley College , '17

I don’t think I fully understood how college would change me. Prior to coming to Wellesley, I really had no clue about who I was. As cliché as that sounds, it’s true. I didn’t know if I was a follower or a leader, a shy person or an outgoing one. In high school, I...