In June of 2015, I became the first in my family to graduate high school on time, and the following autumn, I became the first in my family en route to graduating college.
I grew up the child of two Mexican immigrants who never got the chance at a college degree. I also grew up very privileged because they wanted to give me everything they couldn’t have. I spent my whole primary education in private school because my parents wanted to give me a running start at higher education, in hopes I could succeed to my fullest ability. I grew up encouraged. I grew up being told that I was loved, valued, and so important to my parents that they did not mind the sacrifices it took to send me to private school. I am who I am because my parents loved me, sacrificed, and still sacrifice for me. Their struggle turned into my success. However, being a first generation college student has struggles and perks of their own.
1. No help with homework from your family.
2. Scholarship perks.
3. You don’t have anyone in your immediate family who knows how to guide you through the application process.
4. Figuring out class schedules on your own.
5. The pressure to be the best of the best because your parents didn’t get that chance.
6. The expenses are no joke.
7. Parents have a hard time relating to your stress level, & sometimes dismiss it as “you got lazy."
8. Basically figuring college out all by yourself.
9. Hoping you’re able to provide your parents with the luxuries they gave up because they lovingly sacrificed for you.
10. In the end making your family proud when you’re the first to graduate from college.
All in all, I am proud of my roots and the journey my parents took in life to provide me with every shot at success. Thank you, Mommy and Daddy. Your sacrifice was and is not in vain.
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