Our Stories - First Generation Students

U-M faculty, students and staff who are first-generation students and graduates proudly share their stories. We’d like to hear from you too. What has your experience been like as a first-gen at U-M?

SHARE YOUR STORY

We are collecting stories from first-generation college students who have a connection to the University of Michigan. If you are an alumnus/alumna, faculty, staff or student from U-M, we would love to share your story.

Submit Your Story

Hear Our First-Gen Stories

Click on profiles to read their entire first-gen story.

Cynthia Tate (Staff)

It takes courage to face your fears that you don't fit in or aren't good enough. Don't listen to fear. Fear is a liar. Know that when you come here, you belong. You are coming home. I've learned that it's OK to try something and fail; that you can always change your story and your mind. The greatest leaders I've met here at the University of Michigan are those who also happened to be first gen college students. They have a special appreciation for different student and staff identities and backgrounds.

Sally Pham (Undergraduate Student)

College is a time of learning and growth, and everyone's journey is different. Do what feels right to you. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable because there is power in your story.

Julia Kassab (Undergraduate Student)

Don't be afraid to explore new fields / ideas! Take classes that seem outside your comfort zone, go out of your way to meet new people, and take on exciting opportunities as they come.

Joey (Undergraduate Student)

Always put in that extra step to get where you want to go. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there, make connections, and define your own success! Always remember that the extra effort will be worth it.

Jill Charbonneau (Undergraduate Student)

I am proud to be a First-Gen student! I know that I am making my family and friends proud. I am incredibly thankful for my Michigan education and cannot wait to use what I have learned when I go to law school.

Anabelle Dally (Undergraduate Student)

If you think an opportunity might interest you - pursue it even if you are afraid of not being capable enough for it. Without seeking out opportunities, there are fewer chances for you to grow into someone who is confident, capable, and determined to succeed.

Riley Kina (Undergraduate Student)

Attend festifall and get involved with everything you’re interested in! Put yourself out there and you will find your community!

Romonia Atchison (Staff)

My advice to other First-Gen students: -Embrace and own all of your cultural backgrounds. It's what makes you unique and continue to shine in this world. -Keep breaking down stereotypes and continue to make a way for others within your culture to come through and do great things. -Go after your goals and don't let anyone or anything stop you! This world needs you. -Big up yourself!

Shantaris Brown (Graduate Student)

My advice for other First-Gen students would be never lose sight of your goals and don't stop until you achieve them. Build community while you can, it will make the journey a lot more fun and easier! You are meant to be here, never doubt yourself or your abilities. You are a trailblazer.

Christina Zerka (Undergraduate Student)

It's perfectly normal not to have everything figured out from the start; trust the process, be open to new possibilities, and let your status as a first-gen student be a source of pride.

Cielo Jimenez (Undergraduate Student)

Seek as much help as you can. Whether it's from faculty, friends, or organizations, the more help you have to navigate college will help you tremendously in your journey to succeed.

Nancy Lucero (Graduate Student)

YOU BELONG!! Never doubt your worth or question whether you should be at UM (or anywhere else for that matter.) You didn't take anyone else's seat, it is YOURS.

Matt Sullivan (Faculty, Staff)

When I look back, I am profoundly grateful and humbled by all of the people, like Dr. Nader, who took the time to see my potential and to help me develop it. My whole purpose in SOUL is to do the same for first-gens here at UM - to give a little back of what was given to me.

Monica Olszewski (Undergraduate Student)

Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek out help. I feel that like growing up as First Generation students we always thought we had to figure out life all by ourselves because we didn't have anyone to ask when we were younger. There are so many people at the University of Michigan that just want to see you succeed so when your struggling reach out to the community.

Tabi Cain (Undergraduate Student)

Ask questions. If you don’t know who to ask, keep asking everyone around you and you’ll be pointed in the right direction.

Joelle Fundaro Randall (Staff)

Remember you are resilient and it is okay to ask for help! No one can do this solo! Together, we create new opportunities and accomplish so much more - more than you might think is possible. You grow and learn new things every time try something new and have fun!

Raven (Alum)

Don't let your education get in the way of learning. To elaborate, your formal education at one of the top institutions is important, but don't forget to focus on the other happenings on campus- get involved, join a club, make friends! I spent way too much time focusing on my studies because I didn't want to disappoint my family, and while I thoroughly enjoyed my academics, I didn't spend as much time involved on campus.

Joseph Ballard II (staff)

My advice to any first-generation college student is to not let anything (imposter syndrome, environmental or societal influences, people, life circumstances, etc.) deter you from accomplishing any goals you have set for yourself.

Shannon Gass (Staff)

Ask questions and do not forget you belong here! First-gen students are courageous and there are so many resources for support to help you succeed!

Crystal (Undergraduate Student)

First-Gen students, make sure to look for and apply to every scholarship you can. In addition, make sure to say "yes" to new experiences and opportunities here at U-M! You never know who you might meet, or what you might learn. Keep your chin up, you are doing great!

Jasmyne Short (Staff)

Remember, it's okay not to have all the answers, and seeking help is a strength, not a weakness. Your journey is a narrative of determination and possibility, and your voice, as a first-gen trailblazer, has the power to inspire and shape the future for those who follow in your footsteps

Travis L. Martin (Staff)

Although it may get challenging sometimes, know that you belong here. You are part of the University of Michigan. Seek out formal and informal mentors to help you navigate and find a sense of belonging here. Learn how to increase your financial literacy and other soft skills as they will propel you.

Meagan Hart-Molloy (Staff)

As a first-gen student, it can feel like you've missed the memo at some point. Remember that you are value added to this community and know that you have champions here to support you and provide answers to those questions and curiosities. Not knowing and being willing to ask and explore takes courage, and you are capable!

Dwight Lang (Faculty)

Never forget where you’ve come from. Don’t be afraid to acknowledge your class heritage to others throughout your life. If you try to forget your past, your present and future are incomplete.