2 answers
Kimberly
Student
Santa Barbara, California
1
Question
Updated
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How did you navigate being a first generation college student and what was your experience like? #Spring25
Being a first generation college student myself, it has not been a smooth path so far, but I hope to get inspired by some of your stories!
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2 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
695
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Kimberly,
I have been a first-generation student before I knew that that was supposed to be a problem. I would say it didn't really affect me as a student. I had the advantage of having very small classes in my major. There were few of us, and we were a pretty tight-knit group from all kinds of backgrounds.
One problem that I had (still have) as a first-generation student is that my parents don't understand why I moved far away to study and again for jobs. They also don't understand that I don't have a 9 to 5 job and work most weekends at least part of the day.
As I progressed, I also noticed differences in social norms and what "appropriate" actions are in certain situations. I don't really know how to solve that other than by slowly learning from others.
I hope this helps! All the best to you! You got this!
KP
I have been a first-generation student before I knew that that was supposed to be a problem. I would say it didn't really affect me as a student. I had the advantage of having very small classes in my major. There were few of us, and we were a pretty tight-knit group from all kinds of backgrounds.
One problem that I had (still have) as a first-generation student is that my parents don't understand why I moved far away to study and again for jobs. They also don't understand that I don't have a 9 to 5 job and work most weekends at least part of the day.
As I progressed, I also noticed differences in social norms and what "appropriate" actions are in certain situations. I don't really know how to solve that other than by slowly learning from others.
I hope this helps! All the best to you! You got this!
KP
Michelle M.
Actress
2600
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kimberly !
Even though I was a second "generation" student at college, I would like to address your inquiry because my perspective is sort of different from today's mindset about who in whose family ever went to college before and if that is a disadvantage.
I am not sure when the concept of generational student ever came about, but my classmates, with the exception of a handful of students, were ALL the first in their families to attend college. and they didn't have one problem nor were they set apart. There's absolutely nothing that delineates students by their families' experience. It's just not a thing. People either go to college or not. It doesn't warrant a category because no one in your family didn't go to college. Frankly, I do not think this label does anyone any positive benefit. A person was either a student or they weren't. No judgement needed.
Always keep in mind that your parents and grandparents had very special plans for their life, so special, it led to you being born. Everyone's life goes differently and not every convention is meant for everyone and at various times of their life. Think of your college life as something that is inspiring you, providing self-discovery and expanding your social circle. Think about the specific things that you are encountering that you say have "not been a smooth path so far". What are the specifics about this ? Ask more questions about the specifics.
Remember that all students have access to strong and various supports on campus. Become familiar with your Academic Counseling Office, Career Center, Student Union, the Dean or Chairperson of your Major Department, the Library, the financial aid office and any other student services that are pertinent to your particular college.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best as you move forward with positive thoughts !
Even though I was a second "generation" student at college, I would like to address your inquiry because my perspective is sort of different from today's mindset about who in whose family ever went to college before and if that is a disadvantage.
I am not sure when the concept of generational student ever came about, but my classmates, with the exception of a handful of students, were ALL the first in their families to attend college. and they didn't have one problem nor were they set apart. There's absolutely nothing that delineates students by their families' experience. It's just not a thing. People either go to college or not. It doesn't warrant a category because no one in your family didn't go to college. Frankly, I do not think this label does anyone any positive benefit. A person was either a student or they weren't. No judgement needed.
Always keep in mind that your parents and grandparents had very special plans for their life, so special, it led to you being born. Everyone's life goes differently and not every convention is meant for everyone and at various times of their life. Think of your college life as something that is inspiring you, providing self-discovery and expanding your social circle. Think about the specific things that you are encountering that you say have "not been a smooth path so far". What are the specifics about this ? Ask more questions about the specifics.
Remember that all students have access to strong and various supports on campus. Become familiar with your Academic Counseling Office, Career Center, Student Union, the Dean or Chairperson of your Major Department, the Library, the financial aid office and any other student services that are pertinent to your particular college.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best as you move forward with positive thoughts !