2023 #FirstGen Profiles

Title: Executive Director, Internal Audit, Southern University System
Alma Mater: Southern University and A&M College, 1979
Degree: B.S., Accounting

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
My education laid the foundation for a successful and rewarding career. It has also enabled me to serve in higher education and assist other first generation students strive to achieve their aspiration of a better life and career.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Be tenacious and persistent in pursuing your aspirations. Ask for help when you need it and believe in yourself.

Year: Sophomore
Major: Chemical Laboratory Technology
School: SOWELA

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a #FirstGen college student has shaped my life in so many ways but some of the more profound ways are that it is never too late to accomplish the dreams and goals I have set for myself. With hard work and dedication, I can not only achieve but excel at almost anything. I can show my children the importance of furthering their education after high school and be able to guide them from my personal experience.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a #FirstGen college student in my family because I was tired of the financial struggle that my family and I were experiencing. By going back to school I will be able to find a career that will help alleviate some of that financial burden. My husband has also shared an interest in going back to school once I am finished, which would never have been possible before deciding to go back to college.

Title: Part-Time Instructor, LSU
Alma Mater: Southeastern Louisiana University (2009, 2015), LSU (2021)
Degrees: B.S. (Human Biology), M.Ed. (Educational Leadership and Administration), Ph.D. (Special Education and Educational Research)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
I learned that I can do hard things! This lesson has set me on a path of setting big goals and taking the steps to achieve them. I am always looking forward to the next learning journey.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Set goals and just keeping chipping away at them! Celebrate the small and big victories! Seek the resources that you need to be successful.

Title: Director of Accessibility and Disability Support, Northwestern State University
Alma Mater: Northwestern State University (2019, 2022)
Degrees: B.S. (Psychology), M.A. (Counseling)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
I found it hard to relate to my peers who could turn to their parents and families for support/information. I met other first-generation students, as well as supportive faculty and staff members who I could confide in and who understood what this experience was like, making the situation easier to deal with. I learned how to navigate and thrive in college from my mentors, connections, and resources. I learned that NSU was there to support first-generation students like myself, which was crucial to my journey as a college student. I do not know what I would have done without the support I received from my professors, faculty, and staff.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Introduce yourself to everyone possible! Make connections with everyone you can! You are not alone, and there are endless opportunities to get connected, involved, and find support!

Year: Sophomore
Major: Microbiology
School: Northwestern State University

What was the reason you become a #FirstGen college student in your family?
My dad wanted me to go into the labor force, but I wanted to have a career of my choosing.

Year: Senior
Major: Criminal Justice (Minor: Pre-Law and Paralegal Studies)
School: Northwestern State University

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a #FirstGen college student to restore hope and possibility into my family. I aspire to be that beacon of light and representative figure that allows future generations to believe that they, too, cannot just attend college, but graduate. There is success out there for us all. We must first believe it’s attainable, go after it, and reach back to our community to pick up more #FirstGen students.

Title: Certification Coordinator, Louisiana Tech University
Alma Mater: Louisiana Tech University (2004), LSU Shreveport (2019), University of Southern Mississippi (2023)
Degrees: B.A. (History, Geography), M.Ed. (Educational Leadership), Ph.D. (Educational Administration)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
As a first-generation college graduate, I had to figure out how to do college and the world of academia. This has made me more open to new experiences and the unknown.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Do not be afraid to ask questions. There was a great deal of things that I did not understand and had to ask for help in several areas. By asking these questions, I was able to take control of my academic success.

Year: 2L / U.S. Army Retired
School: Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater (Year): University of Maryland, University College (2016)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
Being a #FirstGen college graduate put me on solid footing as I exited the military, it has allowed me to set a stronger example of educational accomplishment for my children, and for some of my peers. It also has assured me that every day I make my God, my family, and my ancestors proud and as a non-traditional student, my education sets an example for my community.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a #FirstGen college student to allow my family to reach a new height. My education will contribute to a level of success that my parents and grandparents were not able to achieve. As a #FirstGen college student and second-generation American, I am doing my part to take my family farther than I could have without my education. I am sure my grandfather is proud that I am living the American dream that he envisioned.

Year: Senior
Major: Elementary Education
School: Southern University and A&M College

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a first-generation college graduate has deeply shaped my life. It was a journey filled with challenges and uncertainty, but it also brought a tremendous sense of pride and achievement. It’s opened doors to opportunities I never thought possible and has been a defining aspect of my identity. One piece of advice that I’d give future first gen students, “If you can’t beat fear, do it scared.” Often doing something new can be very scary but if you take a leap of faith, you never know where it may take you!

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I remember the sacrifices my family made to support my education, and the responsibility I felt to set an example for my siblings and future generations.

Year: Senior
Major: Mass Communication, Concentration in Broadcast Journalism
School: Southern University and A&M College

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a first-generation student has shaped me in so many ways. From learning new things on my own to being an example for my younger family members. It instilled a drive in me that no one could ever take away & I know my future is bright! One piece of advice I would give is to “Never allow people to stop your dreams because of where you’ve come from or been! Keep pushing because the sky IS the limit!

Year: Sophomore
Major: Social Work
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
It molded me into completing the mission. Besides me and my brother, no one in my biological family has completed high school. It may have taken me some time, but breaking a generational curse, no matter how hard, has instilled in me my purpose in life.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
The old saying, “The apple don’t fall to far from the tree,” was a saying my adopted mother always used when I was younger. It basically labeled me as a statistic. I want to show not only her as well as others that that apple can be ate at any time. I’m tired of being a statistic.

Title: Adult Education Instructor, Central Louisiana Technical Community College
Alma Mater: Northwestern State University (1998, 2000)
Degrees: B.A. (History), M.A. (English)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
It has helped me because education is my life. My parents did not go to college, but they instilled a love of learning into me and believed the best path for me was college. I don’t know where I’d be without a college degree.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Keep trying! Yes, it’s difficult, and your friends and family may not always understand the challenges you are facing, but it is completely worth it! I’ve never met anyone who regretted getting an education.

Title: Director of Facilities, Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater: Southern University and A&M College (1993)
Degrees: B.S. (Computer Science)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
Being a  first-generation graduate has open an array of opportunities for me. You feel proud of achieving something your parents couldn’t do at your age.

Year: Senior
Major: Criminal Justice
School: Southern University and A&M College

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
It feels very good to be a first gen college student and having the opportunity to even doe my parents never had the experiment to go so, I’m very grateful to go. My parents sacrificed so much to support me in this effort, I am here to make my parents proud.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I would advise the student to get a peer mentor, like I found in the University College department. Take care of your mental health and surround yourself around positive people.

Title: Associate Extension Agent, 4-H Youth Development, LSU Ag Center
Alma Mater: Louisiana Tech University, 2014
Degrees: B.S., Ag Business with a Minor in Plant Science

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
I had the push and drive from my parents because they wanted more opportunities for me than they had. That sparked my desire to finish my degree and do my absolute best.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Don’t be afraid! Go out there and be the best you can be!

Title: Adjunct Instructor, Northwestern State University
Alma Mater: Northwestern State University (1987, 1993, 2001)
Degrees: B.A. (Journalism/Public Relations), M.Ed. (Early Childhood Education), Educational Specialist in Special Education

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
Growing up, there was never any question about me attending college. My parents both expected me to attend NSU and graduate. My dad was a high school graduate, and my mother was a registered nurse. When she earned her license, there were no nursing degrees through colleges. At that time, they were through hospitals. My parents wanted me to be successful in whatever career I chose and attending college was that path to success. Along the way, I established lifelong friends, met my husband, and worked and taught in the public school systems in Red River and Natchitoches Parishes for 33 years.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
The advice that I would give to future first general college students is to follow your dreams. Do not let anything or anyone stand in your way. There are many people out there that want to help you become successful. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

Title: Coordinator of Admission/Title IX Confidential Advisor, Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater: Southern University and A&M College (2008, 2011, 2012)
Degrees: B.S. (Sociology), M.S. (Sociology), M.A. (History)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
The wealth of knowledge I obtain has given me the professional stability to obtain employment and be productive in the workplace.

Year: Graduate Student
Major: Clinical Psychology
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a #FirstGen has shaped me to be more outgoing. In high school I was the quiet student who went with the flow. After coming to college, I saw all the different organizations that I could be a part of, and I wanted to opportunity to come out of my shell. I joined many organizations, honor societies, and the best sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. I’m proud of what I accomplished in undergrad, and I’m happy that I’ve been able to find myself. I hope to be able to continue to grow as I earn my Masters.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a #FirstGen college student because I wanted to accomplish something that my parents and grandparents never did. I wanted to be able to further my education and establish a future for myself. My family has always encouraged me to do more than they ever did, and I wanted to make sure that I could make a name for myself and make my family proud.

Title: Assistant Director of Records and Registration, Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater: Southern University and A&M College (2000), Prairie View A&M University (2018)
Degrees: B.S. (Business Management), MBA

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
As a #FirstGen college graduate, I have had some extraordinary life experiences, employment opportunities, and access to organizations leading to lifelong learning and friendships. Culturally, education is the key to exposure for a knowledge base rich in heritage, past triumphs and failures, and an enriching volume of places traveled. With a college degree in hand my world in comparison to my parents is significantly different.

Unlike my parents, I live in a two-parent household with a spouse who is educated as well. Both of us are employed with salaries that are economically middle-class. My mother died when I was sixteen years old whereas my spouse was raised in a two-parent home. Education provided me an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty and access the American dream of ownership. Understandably, home ownership and financial stability became the norm as we communicated with others in the educational institution during our matriculation. It is fair to say that the people in whom you surround yourself with play an intricate role in the maturation process. My adult development was shaped and formed by life experiences. As a result, I am grateful for all experiences leading to who I am today.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
I would advise all future #FirstGen to open their minds to the possibilities of what can be achieved with a positive outlook. The future holds unlimited economic, personal, and generational successful achievements. Never take for granted their meager beginnings because the future holds a plethora of experiences just waiting for them to take a leap of faith.

Title: Director of the Louis A. Berry Institute for Civil Rights and Justice, Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater: LSU (2007), LSU Law Center (2016)
Degrees: B.A. (International Studies with a Concentration in Africa and the Middle East), J.D.

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
I was afforded more educational and career opportunities than my parents or ancestors. The professional networks also opened doors to explore passions with academic support.

Year: Junior
Major: Culinary Arts
School: SOWELA

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a #FirstGen college student gave me a new sense of pride in knowing that I’m able to do what my parents wanted to do but couldn’t. It’s also accelerating my maturity process through all the responsibility of blazing the new trail in my family.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
If I’m being honest, I wasn’t really thinking about that when I enrolled. I just knew from a young age that I wanted to be a chef when I grew up and I knew that a degree would accelerate my career. It hasn’t been easy, and I’ve had to jump through hoop after hoop, but I’m laser focused on finishing my associate degree then transferring my credits to a four-year institution and getting my bachelors.

Year: Senior
Major: Communications
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
It has been a tough road because every time I face a new situation, I do not have any of my family members to turn to that have been through similar things. Having to deal with every problem on my own has shaped me into an independent student and woman. I have learned to take every problem step by step because I now know that I can overcome any obstacle that comes in my way. It can be hard to see classmates whose parents are alumni or have a college degree because it seems like they are more prepared than you, and that they are always a few steps ahead of you, no matter how hard you try. I used this feeling to make sure I give every class and assignment my full 100 percent, because I know that I have many family members that would have loved to be in my position and be able to go to college, so I shouldn’t give up on my degree just because it seems like other students may have it easier than me. Overall, being a first-generation college student has made me a stronger student; I want to leave a legacy for my future kids and grandchildren, one that they can be proud of.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a first-generation college student because my grandparents, great grandparents, and the rest of my family worked so hard in their lives to put me in the situation where I was able to graduate high school, apply for college, and attend college. I was the first one in my family that had the option to do this, and I knew that if I went to college and graduated, I could get a job in the future to support my family back home. My grandparents would have loved to be able to graduate high school and go to college, but they did not have that option. They had to work, support the family, and could not afford to pay tuition. All their hard work led up to me attending Northwestern State University, three hours away from my hometown. Without their constant support, I would have never been able to make it as far as I have. Now that I am only a few months away from graduating with my bachelor’s degree, I am more and more grateful for the sacrifices my family made for me. When times get tough at college, I remind myself that I am being a first-generation student so that my children do not have to be. I want to give them every opportunity to further their education, without them having to worry about money, having food to eat, and how they will afford their tuition. Every time that I overcome a hard obstacle, I am happy to know that it will be easier for my future children to overcome the same obstacle in the future. I am getting my degree not only for me, but for all my family members who paved the way for me to get to college. I carry their love with me to every class, every event, and when I walk across the stage at graduation.

Year: Senior
Major: Biology and Physical Sciences
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a first-generation college student made me see patience, prosperity, and success.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
The reason I became a first-generation college student is to make a difference, be living proof, and show that dreams do come true.

Title: Director of Institutional Research, Northwestern State University
Alma Mater: Purdue University (1985), Louisiana Tech University (2020)
Degrees: B.S. (Computer Information Systems), M.S. (Engineering and Technology Management)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
My parents never gave me the “option” of going to college. It was a done deal in their minds that I would get a degree because that would mean independence and freedom in my adult life. I am forever grateful for their steadfast determination.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Seek advice of wise people. But think that over with discernment, make your own considered choices, and own them.

Year: Sophomore
Major: Interior Design
School: LSU

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
It has and continues to shape my life by giving me a sense of pride and drive to complete what I have started. It’s been almost 30 years since I graduated high school, and I never really had the opportunity or support needed to further my education. Let’s just say that life throws you curve balls and forces you to make choices that aren’t always the right ones. I’ve wasted a lot of years finding myself and trying to shake the mistakes of the past. 4 years ago I came to work for LSU as a carpenter master and decided I wanted to take advantage of the opportunities that LSU offers, so I decided to chase my passion and begin a new story for my life. I have a great support system at home and at LSU which helps me to continue and put my best foot forward.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
The reason I became a first-generation student was to prove to myself and my family that it’s never too late to start something new and chase your passion. My parents didn’t have the money to send me to school back then and were going through a divorce when I needed the support to start my young adult stage in life, I had to figure it out. My father and mother met in Venezuela where I was born and eventually settled in Texas. My dad is an immigrant and struggled in his work life barely making ends meet and integrating into the American culture. Both my parents are past retirement age and still have trouble making ends meet, I don’t want that for me or my family, so I decided I wanted to go to college. I still must work full time, but I have accomplished so much this far and I’m truly grateful for this opportunity and excited to be the first person in my family to get a degree.

Year: Graduate Student
Major: Leadership and Human Resource Development
School: LSU

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
I did not fully recognize or appreciate the impact that being a first-generation student had on me until recent years. The grit and determination to succeed despite my circumstances has now become ingrained in me and is a permanent lens for my outlook on life. It led me to work full-time during my undergraduate education to pay my way through school but built my resilience and resume in the process. While grueling, it afforded me an opportunity to jumpstart my career and paved a foundation that I do not believe I would have had otherwise. To this day, I’m grateful for the long days and hours that developed my character, my professionalism, my work ethic, and my motivation to achieve more.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
It was never a question for me that I would go to college. My father was an enlisted military officer, and my mother was a teen mother. From an early age they encouraged me to want more for my life and pave a path they didn’t have. I wanted to make them proud and prove that I could establish a new generational path for my family. I am proud now to say that I am not only the first college student in my family, but I am also a first generation, Pell Grant recipient from rural Central Louisiana, who finished my undergraduate degree in four years, while working full-time, and went on to obtain my Master’s while working full time and am now enrolled in pursing my PhD.

Title: Director of Clinical Practice and Partnerships and M.A.T. Coordinator, Northwestern State University
Alma Mater: LSU Alexandria (2006), University of Louisiana at Monroe (2009), University of Louisiana at Lafayette (2022)
Degrees: B.S. (Psychology), M.Ed. (Educational Leadership), Ed.D. (K-12 Educational Leadership)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
It has helped me obtain a career that helps me not only comfortably provide for my family but demonstrates to my children that higher education is obtainable.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Ask questions. Find out about scholarships, grants, and any other resources available. Don’t let FASFA intimidate you. If you are not familiar with tax documents, ask someone to help. Be resourceful. Ask professors how to study/prepare for their class. Be sure to commit to the work, even if you think the course is irrelevant to your career. You can learn valuable information in core classes. Find a friend who is passionate who will not only be support but push you to do your best.

Year: Law Student
School: Southern University Law Center

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
This has been the toughest period of my life. Being a first gen means going through “adult” issues alone. I was never given any guidance or help when it came to classes, financial aid, internships, etc. It made me grow as a person as now I feel as if I can accomplish anything else that is thrown at me.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I knew from the fourth grade I wanted to become an attorney. I was always an intense reader constantly competing to win “the best reader award” at school for the child who read the most books that year. Once I found out the requirements necessary to become an attorney, I knew that I would have to break the generational curse in my family and attend an undergraduate university with no help. I come from a low-income family in a city that does not help the youth advance past a high school education. Therefore, I knew I had to become the first to go through school to ensure I did not get stuck in my hometown.

Title:Director of Student Life, Bossier Parish Community College
Alma Mater: Bossier Parish Community College (2009), LSU Shreveport (2012); Northwestern State University (2019)
Degrees*: A.A. (General Studies), B.A. (Electronic Media Journalism), M.A. (Student Affairs in Higher Education)
* Currently enrolled at LSU Shreveport in Ed.D. in Leadership Studies program

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
Being a first-generation college student has impacted my life in so many ways! I am the first person in my family to pursue a credential and successfully cross the finish line. This journey has shown me that no matter who you are, where you come from, or what your background is, choosing to make a better life for yourself and your family is possible. I had such a positive experience at my alma mater, Bossier Parish Community College (BPCC), that I chose to pursue a career in higher education. As the Director of Student Life at BPCC I can help create a positive experience for students – especially first generation college students like myself! It is such a rewarding experience to work with these students and help them succeed and reach their goals!

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
There are people who want you to succeed and are rooting for you! Be sure to look for those “cheerleaders” throughout your time in college. Always strive to do your best, and if you ever experience a need or a challenge, do not be afraid to speak up. There are so many wonderful faculty and staff members who have a wealth of knowledge that can help you overcome any obstacle.

Title: President-Chancellor, Southern University System
Alma Mater: Graceland University (1977), University of Iowa College of Law (1982)
Degrees: B.A., Business Administration; J.D.

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
My education laid the foundation for a successful and rewarding career. It has also enabled me to serve in higher education and assist other first generation students strive to achieve their aspiration of a better life and career.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
Be tenacious and persistent in pursuing your aspirations. Ask for help when you need it and believe in yourself.

Year: Graduate Student
Major: Radiologic Science
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
When I attended high school, I wasn’t sure what sort of industry I wanted to pursue as a career. I come from a lower-class family, so having a wide scope of what careers were out there was near-sighted about family contribution. Being a #FirstGen college student, I was able to see a much broader variety of career opportunities I didn’t know had ever existed. College provided me skills and knowledge I could utilize to explore a wider range or career options. Also, college offered opportunities for personal growth, self-discovery, and aided me in cultivating much needed critical thinking and problem-solving skills. And lastly, by attending college, I have experienced a sense of accomplishment and personal fulfillment because it not only allowed me to excel in a career that I have fallen in love with, but it, to me, represents a significant milestone in my educational journey and life.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I knew after high school that I needed to go to college. I was bright enough as a high school student to see that the evolving world we lived in revolved around some sort of secondary education. Whether it be technical college or undergraduate studies, I knew it was an important occupational need to have a college education. So, after completing high school, I worked a few odd jobs to save up some money and build some credit, and then I joined the United States Marine Corps. Coming from humble beginnings, I knew my parents wouldn’t have the resources to help me pay for attending school. By joining the military, I knew I would have government assistance, in addition to financial aid for low-income college students. After finishing my enlistment contract, I started attending college in pursuit of medicine. My mother once told me when I was younger, “Son, if you don’t ever know what kind of work you want to do when you get older, go into medicine because people will always be sick”, and that bit of advice stayed with me because she was right! So, as I navigated the complex and time-consuming process of applications, and scholarship deadlines, and acceptance letters and everything in-between, I completed my undergraduate studies in Radiologic Technology as a Nuclear Medicine Technologist. And I am now in graduate school expanding upon my undergraduate studies. The primary reason I became a #FirstGen college student is because helping others is in my DNA. And to aid my community and be a productive asset to society, I work in medicine. Had it not been for my passion to be useful to others in their time of need, I’d have never known the kinds of rewards that come along with helping my fellow man. Being a #FirstGen college student gave that to me.

Title: Professor/Director of Legal Analysis and Writing, Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater: Northwestern State University (1976)
Degrees: B.A.

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
I was the first college graduate in my family, but my four siblings followed me to Northwestern. All three of my sisters earned college degrees; two earned master’s. I’m glad I was able to serve as an example to them. Now I teach at Southern University Law Center, a school of access and opportunity. Many of my students are first gens, and I feel as if I can relate to them better, having been through that experience myself.

Title: Case Manager, LSU
Alma Mater: Southeastern Louisiana University (2009, 2015)
Degrees: B.A. (Psychology), M.S. (Counseling)

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
As a first-generation college graduate, I understand the unique challenges that many of us face, especially when attending a predominantly white institution (PWI). My first piece of advice for future first-gen students, regardless of their background, is to seek mentorship early. Finding professors or upperclassmen who can offer guidance and support can be invaluable in navigating the college experience. For black students at PWIs, it’s essential to connect with affinity groups, multicultural organizations, or Black Student Unions. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, as well as resources tailored to your needs.

Secondly, time management is crucial. College can be overwhelming, and balancing coursework, part-time jobs, and personal life can be challenging. I recommend utilizing a planner or digital tools to stay organized. This will help you meet deadlines and create a structured routine, reducing stress.

Financial planning is another key aspect. For many first-gen students, financial constraints can be a significant hurdle. Seek out scholarships, grants, and financial aid to alleviate some of the financial burden. Additionally, explore on-campus work-study opportunities, as they can provide both income and valuable work experience.

It’s also vital to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Don’t hesitate to reach out to academic advisors, counseling services, or professors when you need support academically or emotionally. Universities have resources in place to help students succeed, so make the most of them.

Lastly, persevere and believe in your capabilities. Many first-gen students face imposter syndrome, doubting whether they truly belong. Know that you do belong, and your unique experiences and perspectives are an asset to your academic community. Stay resilient, stay focused, and remember that you are not alone. You are part of a community of first-gen students who have overcome similar challenges and achieved success.

Year: Sophomore
Major: Communication (Minor in Sociology)
School: Centenary College of Louisiana

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a first-generation college student in my family for many reasons, but the most important reason closest to my heart relates to my younger sisters and my mother. What many people don’t know about me is that I’m a girl who came from nothing. I moved almost halfway across the country with nothing more than a suitcase and my family’s hands in mine. And yes, while it was hard and came with its struggles, it also came with the realization that my life was more than just about myself. It was for the small black girl’s dreams to be more than where she was starting at, to take back her wants. I wanted to break the cycle of poverty that my family had been trapped in for generations. I wanted to show my younger sisters and my mother that there was more to life than just struggling to make ends meet. I wanted to recognize just how privileged it is to be a first-generation college student in the first place, and not forget my Black and Indigenous communities who couldn’t have these opportunities. I wanted to be a positive role model and inspire young women to pursue their own dreams. I wanted to prove to every doubter, sometimes that person even being myself, that I was for once worthy, something that was denied from me for such a long time. Being a first-generation college student became the path I needed to complete those wants, even when up against a system that would rather see me fall then rise above it. My reasons are my greatest strengths, but they’re also the driving force behind everything I do – reminding me every day to never stop fighting for the betterment of myself and my community.

Year: Senior
Major: Digital Arts and Communication with a double concentration in Graphic Art and Media Production
School: SOWELA

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Becoming a first-generation college student has given me the freedom to break generational curses.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
I became a first-generation college student because I wanted to make my family proud by furthering my education.

Title: Manager of Career Preparation, LSU Olinde Career Center
Alma Mater: Texas Tech University (2008, 2011), LSU (2021)
Degrees: B.S. (Restaurant, Hotel and Institutional Management), M.S. (Hospitality and Retail Management), M.A. (Higher Education Administration)

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
Being first-generation, I thought that I had to navigate the college process on my own and I also felt the pressure of being the oldest child in having to set the example for my younger siblings. I knew I wanted to graduate and obtain a great career, so I realized that I could not do it alone. I met with an advisor, who then became my mentor, and is still one of my closest friends. I began to get involved on campus and found my sense of belonging. My first-generation identity became my superpower, as I learned to become resilient and determined to reach my goals. Now, I am the Program Coordinator for the Olinde Career Center’s First-Gen Career Mentor Program. I had great mentors throughout college, and I am happy to now help first-generation students obtain great mentors as well. It is a “full circle” moment for me.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
You belong here at LSU! You have earned your place here! You are not alone and do not be afraid to ask for help. There are many resources on campus and many great people happy to help, including the Olinde Career Center. Stay true to yourself, give yourself grace, it is ok to make mistakes, and celebrate all your victories, whether big or small.

Year: Freshman
Major: Nursing
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
It has made me want to work harder to get to my end goal which is being the first to graduate from college in my family.

Year: Senior
Major: Criminal Justice
School: Northwestern State University

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
To say the least, being a #FirstGen college student has been a unique and tough experience. As a first-generation college student, the process of completing my degree introduced me to a world outside of my own, giving me a greater feeling of confidence in myself and my future.

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
The reason I became a first-generation college student had nothing to do with my family but everything to do with me and my goals. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to attend college and become someone that not only my family would be proud of but someone I would be proud of. I see that me becoming a first-generation college student as an honor to my family.

Title: Academic Counselor and Instructor of Law, Southern University Law Center
Alma Mater: LSU (2009), Southern University Law Center (2013)
Degrees: B.A. (English Literature), J.D.

How has being a #FirstGen college graduate shaped your life?
Being a first-generation college graduate shaped my life by opening countless doors and provided me with the tools to reach my goals.

What advice would you give to future #FirstGen college students?
I would tell them to follow your dreams, and when it gets hard to stick with it because it will be worth it in the end. Also don’t be afraid to seek out help and advice.

Year: Senior
Major: Liberal Arts
School: Centenary College of Louisiana

How has being a #FirstGen college student shaped your life?
Being a first-generation college student has shaped my life in many ways. I’ve known since I was very young that my parents wanted me to go to college and try to further my education in ways, they were never able to. They have always pushed me to do the best that I can and shown how proud they are of me every step of the way. Without them, I’d never have made it as far as I have. Being first generation comes with a lot of challenges, like not feeling equal to your peers or the financial burden that coming from a low-income family can put on us, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’m making my family and myself proud every day!

What was the reason you became a #FirstGen college student in your family?
My parents are my reason! They have worked so hard their entire lives to take care of me. They have always wanted me to go farther in life than they ever imagined, and college is helping me do that! It’s also a personal goal, because I not only want to make those around me proud, but I want to accomplish it myself!