A thought for the family…

So you know someone in college. Perhaps this person is your son, daughter, granddaughter, grandson, niece, nephew, cousin. They are going to college to get a good degree, which would lead to a better paying career–they have moved over. Over where? They have become “those” people, the ones that look down at you. Those white collar individuals who are too good to where blue.

For many individuals going to college, they face backlash or resentment or relationships with their support system because there is a fear that a significant change has happen. Well a significant change did happen. Your student got a degree, earned a chance at opportunities that may not have been afforded to them without it. That is what has changed.

For families with first gen students, it is important to remember that the student’s core and foundations haven’t changed. They are still the individuals that you love, care for, and want to see succeed. As a family or support system, you should speak to your student about what they are going through. Students speak to your families, explain to them about what is happening! Experience their new experiences with each other. Communication is key. The university experience is amazing, and it is more amazing when everyone can share in the experience.

I’m First Gen and…

Lately, students have been making appointments for career counseling, and are prefacing it with “I’m a first generation college student…” I am finding that the majority of those statements have a negative connotation. Maybe ashamed of their status? It took me back to when I was a student and while I never had the time or the knowledge or the opportunity to exclaim, I’m first gen. I only was asked on financial documents. That was it. No other representation or support.

It is not shameful or negative. Individuals who identify as first gen should EXCLAIM not EXPLAIN. You are doing it on your own. And remember being first generation students, you have had to find out all the information on your own with limited to no resources. While maintaining grades, families, jobs, and any other things that traditional students do not typically have to worry about. You’re doing it and you’re kicking ass. Remember EXCLAIM! Not Explain.