College students are faced with constant stresses and challenges in order to receive their degree. In addition to all the school work they must complete, another thing that some students have to factor into this stress is their identity as a first generation college student.
Neither of my parents attended college, and even with the best of intentions in mind it was an extremely frustrating process when I started applying and looking at schools. Due to this, the steps I took leading up to, and during my first year of college, were extremely confusing by nature. Researching schools, going on tours, filling out the Common App, applying for financial aid, and the extra paperwork once I decided on a school was beyond overwhelming.
Even if my parents tried to help me throughout the process, there were many times that would have gone much smoother if they could relate to what I was experiencing.
Rather than upsetting my parents by telling them that they can't empathize with me, there were other supports to help me understand what I couldn't. I have found that teachers, friends, and siblings can be an alternative source of guidance and support.
Despite this pressure, I have tried to use being a first generation student as motivation to work harder. I knew since I was young that I wanted to make going to college my main goal. In high school, and even in middle school, I would complete every assignment with college in mind. Now that I am here, my motivation has not dwindled. I put my academics before everything, and I am often too critical of myself.
Being a first generation college student has also played a major role in deciding my career path. I had known for many years that I wanted to be a teacher. My education made me realize that as a teacher, I could help and encourage my students to reach their goals during and after high school, whether it be college or vocational school, regardless of if their parents went to college or not.
We are moving from a time when only the most privileged people can pursue a higher education to a time where education is a key step in further developing society. You may not know it when you look around at the people sitting in your classes, but for some of them being in college may be a gigantic achievement. Every person deserves the chance to get a degree that will help them get the job they aspire to and to contribute their skills to the world.
Being a first generation college student is not something to be ashamed of, it is an accomplishment.
