This letter is for the parents of first-generation college students. This letter is written by a first-generation student to the parents who have sacrificed so much for me. Thank you.
Dear provider...supporter....parent,
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
I know how much you are proud to see your child pursue a college education but I am proud of you. Proud of the hard work you have put forth to insure that I could experience a college education. I know that you put in extra and I thank you for doing that for me. I know that my college expenses come with a huge price tag. I know college isn’t cheap, far from it. I know that all my grants, financial aid, and scholarships don’t nearly cut all the expenses. I am fully aware that my expenses might mean working overtime at work or putting in extra shifts. I know that my expenses could be put in to other things such as a trip out of the country, a new purse, or a new car but you both choose to put the money back into my college because you are fully invested in my education.
College is confusing to you both and to be quite honest it’s confusing to me too. I know that we are both learning the ropes of college together. Thank you for learning with me. Thank you for attending all those college information meetings and helping me navigate through college applications. You may not have known much about the process but you both did everything in your power to help me. I know that when I was stressed out about my college process you were stressing out even more. I remember how excited you were during my college process. I appreciate all those pictures you took when I moved in to my dorm, for all those " I miss you" texts, and for always telling me that you are proud of me.
As a first generation student I understand that parents are trying their hardest to understand our college experience. They've also worked hard to help you get to where you are. I have an appreciation for all the parents of college students who support their child endlessly but I want to take the time to give a big shout out to the parents of first generation students. The pressing pressure of making sure that your student gets to experience a college education is tough. I also understand that it is hard to try to understand the student's college experience but it's the effort to understand that counts the most.
I am grateful for how lucky I am to be able to attend a four year university, this is why this letters is for all the first generation parents. Thank you so much.
Love,
First generation student
