My First Generation College Student

Individuals from all walks of life have learned to endure shortcomings and exemplify resilience in the face of struggle. From a young age, I had a clear understandding of struggle as I watched my mother work two jobs to support my sister and me. From this experience, I understood why my mother pushed me in my education and stressed the idea of attending college. After her passing, I gained a stronger character and became increasingly independent thus held myself to higher educational pursuits. Being a first generation college student makes the entire process alone intimidating with limited support resources to apply. During my senior year in high school, none of my family understood how to guide me through the process or support me; however, I knew the importance of pursuing a …show more content…
Now, in my freshmen year of college, I can say that I am academically devoted to attaining a degree through all struggles. Currently, I am looking into pharmaceutical studies in hopes of one day helping my community maintain a fulfilling lifestyle. Utilizing my resources and skills has helped me gain a stronger sense of self and aspire for a successful career in a field I love. From my struggles, I have learned priceless lessons and hope to continue to perform academically while I discover myself as an adult. I plan to continue with my educational goals, albeit at a different school, however I know that I will make myself and mother proud.
2. As a first generation student with limited resources, I feel that the Empower program provides substantial support in order to achieve the four year graduation guarantee. First generation, low income students often struggle the most and statistically drop out at a higher rate. With this program, I hope to gain a foothold in the PSU community and succeed academically with financial support, and community