Learn from every moment. That is the motto a first-generation student has to live by. Being the first in their family to matriculate into a college or university can be very difficult and stressful. It is the student’s responsibility to make their own path to find success in the future. No one guides them. No one can really help them. A first generation student is the “first student in [the] immediate family to attend college” (College Board). This can cause high amounts of stress on the student. Many students fear that if they do not succeed in college, it will bring some sort of dishonor. Not only to themselves but to their family. That student is the role model to their entire family and friends. They are the ones people look up to. Some
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That is one common feeling all first generation students feel. You can sit in class for hours and try your best to pay attention to what the professor says yet you walk out of the room questioning yourself. In my case, I find myself doubting myself and asking “is this how the professor wanted it? Or am I doing something wrong?” In most cases, any other student could call a parent or family and ask, “hey! When you were in college how was this done?” Most likely their question would be answered. However, a first-generation student has no one who they can call. Sure, the professor is there but constantly asking for help isn’t always something you want to do. You cant help but feel that you are burden. Sadly, you cant help but feel stupid. Seeing how other students quickly adapt to new situations and doing well in their work makes you feel like the underdog. You feel like you don’t fit in and that you shouldnt be there. According to the University of Denver, “first generation college students are associated with an increased risk for depression and anxiety” (UofD). First generation students not only have to deal with class and homework they also have to battle themselves and try their best to maintain positive. It is an ongoing battle as each week always brings something
That is one common feeling all first generation students feel. You can sit in class for hours and try your best to pay attention to what the professor says yet you walk out of the room questioning yourself. In my case, I find myself doubting myself and asking “is this how the professor wanted it? Or am I doing something wrong?” In most cases, any other student could call a parent or family and ask, “hey! When you were in college how was this done?” Most likely their question would be answered. However, a first-generation student has no one who they can call. Sure, the professor is there but constantly asking for help isn’t always something you want to do. You cant help but feel that you are burden. Sadly, you cant help but feel stupid. Seeing how other students quickly adapt to new situations and doing well in their work makes you feel like the underdog. You feel like you don’t fit in and that you shouldnt be there. According to the University of Denver, “first generation college students are associated with an increased risk for depression and anxiety” (UofD). First generation students not only have to deal with class and homework they also have to battle themselves and try their best to maintain positive. It is an ongoing battle as each week always brings something