6 answers
Mercedes
Student
Somerton, Arizona
2
Questions
Asked
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How is it leaving home and going across the country to go to university being first generation?
I am going to be first generation to go to university in both sides of my family. I am also interested in medicine. I am very passionate about my education and interest but I would need to go through this journey without understanding what's ahead of me.
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6 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4244
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Mercedes,
Leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be an exciting yet challenging experience. As the first person in your family to pursue higher education, you may face unique circumstances and obstacles that others may not fully understand. However, this journey can also be incredibly rewarding and pave the way for future generations in your family.
Adjusting to a New Environment:
One of the main challenges you may encounter as a first-generation student leaving home is adjusting to a new environment. Moving away from your family and familiar surroundings can be overwhelming at first. You will need to navigate through a new city or town, find accommodation, and establish a support system. It is important to remember that many universities have resources specifically designed to assist first-generation students in their transition, such as mentorship programs, counseling services, and academic support centers.
Financial Considerations:
Another significant aspect of being a first-generation student is the financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education. Without the guidance of parents or family members who have gone through the process before, understanding the financial aid system and finding scholarships or grants can be challenging. It is crucial to research and explore all available options for financial assistance, including government aid programs, scholarships offered by the university or external organizations, and part-time employment opportunities.
Navigating Academic Challenges:
As a first-generation student interested in medicine, you will likely face academic challenges along your educational journey. The field of medicine requires dedication, hard work, and a strong academic foundation. It is essential to seek out resources such as tutoring services, study groups, and academic advisors who can provide guidance on course selection and help you develop effective study strategies. Additionally, building relationships with professors and seeking mentorship from professionals in the medical field can provide valuable insights and support.
Building Support Networks:
While embarking on this journey without prior knowledge or understanding of what lies ahead may seem daunting, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many universities have programs and organizations specifically designed to support first-generation students. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, mentorship, and guidance throughout your university experience. Additionally, connecting with other first-generation students who share similar experiences can be invaluable in navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes together.
In conclusion, leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be both exciting and challenging. It requires resilience, determination, and a willingness to seek out resources and support. While you may face unique circumstances and obstacles, remember that many others have successfully navigated this journey before you. Embrace the opportunity to pave the way for future generations in your family and pursue your passion for medicine with dedication and enthusiasm.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. The College Board (www.collegeboard.org)
2. U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov)
3. First Generation Foundation (www.firstgenerationfoundation.org)
Leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be an exciting yet challenging experience. As the first person in your family to pursue higher education, you may face unique circumstances and obstacles that others may not fully understand. However, this journey can also be incredibly rewarding and pave the way for future generations in your family.
Adjusting to a New Environment:
One of the main challenges you may encounter as a first-generation student leaving home is adjusting to a new environment. Moving away from your family and familiar surroundings can be overwhelming at first. You will need to navigate through a new city or town, find accommodation, and establish a support system. It is important to remember that many universities have resources specifically designed to assist first-generation students in their transition, such as mentorship programs, counseling services, and academic support centers.
Financial Considerations:
Another significant aspect of being a first-generation student is the financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education. Without the guidance of parents or family members who have gone through the process before, understanding the financial aid system and finding scholarships or grants can be challenging. It is crucial to research and explore all available options for financial assistance, including government aid programs, scholarships offered by the university or external organizations, and part-time employment opportunities.
Navigating Academic Challenges:
As a first-generation student interested in medicine, you will likely face academic challenges along your educational journey. The field of medicine requires dedication, hard work, and a strong academic foundation. It is essential to seek out resources such as tutoring services, study groups, and academic advisors who can provide guidance on course selection and help you develop effective study strategies. Additionally, building relationships with professors and seeking mentorship from professionals in the medical field can provide valuable insights and support.
Building Support Networks:
While embarking on this journey without prior knowledge or understanding of what lies ahead may seem daunting, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many universities have programs and organizations specifically designed to support first-generation students. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, mentorship, and guidance throughout your university experience. Additionally, connecting with other first-generation students who share similar experiences can be invaluable in navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes together.
In conclusion, leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be both exciting and challenging. It requires resilience, determination, and a willingness to seek out resources and support. While you may face unique circumstances and obstacles, remember that many others have successfully navigated this journey before you. Embrace the opportunity to pave the way for future generations in your family and pursue your passion for medicine with dedication and enthusiasm.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. The College Board (www.collegeboard.org)
2. U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov)
3. First Generation Foundation (www.firstgenerationfoundation.org)
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4244
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Mercedes,
Leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be an exciting yet challenging experience. As the first person in your family to pursue higher education, you may face unique circumstances and obstacles that others may not fully understand. However, this journey can also be incredibly rewarding and pave the way for future generations in your family.
Adjusting to a New Environment:
One of the main challenges you may encounter as a first-generation student leaving home is adjusting to a new environment. Moving away from your family and familiar surroundings can be overwhelming at first. You will need to navigate through a new city or town, find accommodation, and establish a support system. It is important to remember that many universities have resources specifically designed to assist first-generation students in their transition, such as mentorship programs, counseling services, and academic support centers.
Financial Considerations:
Another significant aspect of being a first-generation student is the financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education. Without the guidance of parents or family members who have gone through the process before, understanding the financial aid system and finding scholarships or grants can be challenging. It is crucial to research and explore all available options for financial assistance, including government aid programs, scholarships offered by the university or external organizations, and part-time employment opportunities.
Navigating Academic Challenges:
As a first-generation student interested in medicine, you will likely face academic challenges along your educational journey. The field of medicine requires dedication, hard work, and a strong academic foundation. It is essential to seek out resources such as tutoring services, study groups, and academic advisors who can provide guidance on course selection and help you develop effective study strategies. Additionally, building relationships with professors and seeking mentorship from professionals in the medical field can provide valuable insights and support.
Building Support Networks:
While embarking on this journey without prior knowledge or understanding of what lies ahead may seem daunting, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many universities have programs and organizations specifically designed to support first-generation students. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, mentorship, and guidance throughout your university experience. Additionally, connecting with other first-generation students who share similar experiences can be invaluable in navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes together.
In conclusion, leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be both exciting and challenging. It requires resilience, determination, and a willingness to seek out resources and support. While you may face unique circumstances and obstacles, remember that many others have successfully navigated this journey before you. Embrace the opportunity to pave the way for future generations in your family and pursue your passion for medicine with dedication and enthusiasm.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. The College Board (www.collegeboard.org)
2. U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov)
3. First Generation Foundation (www.firstgenerationfoundation.org)
Leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be an exciting yet challenging experience. As the first person in your family to pursue higher education, you may face unique circumstances and obstacles that others may not fully understand. However, this journey can also be incredibly rewarding and pave the way for future generations in your family.
Adjusting to a New Environment:
One of the main challenges you may encounter as a first-generation student leaving home is adjusting to a new environment. Moving away from your family and familiar surroundings can be overwhelming at first. You will need to navigate through a new city or town, find accommodation, and establish a support system. It is important to remember that many universities have resources specifically designed to assist first-generation students in their transition, such as mentorship programs, counseling services, and academic support centers.
Financial Considerations:
Another significant aspect of being a first-generation student is the financial burden that comes with pursuing higher education. Without the guidance of parents or family members who have gone through the process before, understanding the financial aid system and finding scholarships or grants can be challenging. It is crucial to research and explore all available options for financial assistance, including government aid programs, scholarships offered by the university or external organizations, and part-time employment opportunities.
Navigating Academic Challenges:
As a first-generation student interested in medicine, you will likely face academic challenges along your educational journey. The field of medicine requires dedication, hard work, and a strong academic foundation. It is essential to seek out resources such as tutoring services, study groups, and academic advisors who can provide guidance on course selection and help you develop effective study strategies. Additionally, building relationships with professors and seeking mentorship from professionals in the medical field can provide valuable insights and support.
Building Support Networks:
While embarking on this journey without prior knowledge or understanding of what lies ahead may seem daunting, it is important to remember that you are not alone. Many universities have programs and organizations specifically designed to support first-generation students. These communities can provide a sense of belonging, mentorship, and guidance throughout your university experience. Additionally, connecting with other first-generation students who share similar experiences can be invaluable in navigating the challenges and celebrating the successes together.
In conclusion, leaving home and going across the country to attend university as a first-generation student can be both exciting and challenging. It requires resilience, determination, and a willingness to seek out resources and support. While you may face unique circumstances and obstacles, remember that many others have successfully navigated this journey before you. Embrace the opportunity to pave the way for future generations in your family and pursue your passion for medicine with dedication and enthusiasm.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names:
1. The College Board (www.collegeboard.org)
2. U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov)
3. First Generation Foundation (www.firstgenerationfoundation.org)
Noopur Dubey
PhD research fellow
32
Answers
Graz, Styria, Austria
Updated
Noopur’s Answer
It has its own challenges but you will learn so much and see positive changes in yourself. As you are really passionate and interested you will be able to do good. It is a great opportunity. You will surely meet new people and make new friends. It takes time to adapt in new environment but once you are used to it you will enjoy it.
Kia Barry
Quality Control Technician
2
Answers
Ames, Iowa
Updated
Kia’s Answer
First, congratulations on your new journey!!! This is both exciting and intimidating but it'll be worth it.
You'll be exposed to new cultures, people maybe even languages and as exciting as that is, it may also be intimidating. Align yourself with the school international council/students association. You'll probably attend an international students orientation. That's a great way to begin making connections. If you can reach out to any professors, roommates other international students before you arrive, that's a good idea. At least you'll know someone before you arrive and that alone helps lowers the anxiety.
Be open minded and willing to experience new things. It's ok to not know what's ahead of you. Many of us don't. Have faith in your ability. Remember you were brave enough to even apply and you were accepted. Trust that you have the tools you need to succeed. Communicate with your family regularly. One of the first voices I heard everyday was my mom's and I found that very helpful just to start the day off with a familiar voice in a strange place.
Above all, be focused. Remember what you're going there to do and make that your top priority. Become familiar with your professors, classes, requirements. Find the library and if there's a student success center-that also.
Being a first generation University student is quite the honor and you've already made your family proud. Continue to build on the discipline you've established for yourself and you'll succeed.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck on your new journey!!!!
You'll be exposed to new cultures, people maybe even languages and as exciting as that is, it may also be intimidating. Align yourself with the school international council/students association. You'll probably attend an international students orientation. That's a great way to begin making connections. If you can reach out to any professors, roommates other international students before you arrive, that's a good idea. At least you'll know someone before you arrive and that alone helps lowers the anxiety.
Be open minded and willing to experience new things. It's ok to not know what's ahead of you. Many of us don't. Have faith in your ability. Remember you were brave enough to even apply and you were accepted. Trust that you have the tools you need to succeed. Communicate with your family regularly. One of the first voices I heard everyday was my mom's and I found that very helpful just to start the day off with a familiar voice in a strange place.
Above all, be focused. Remember what you're going there to do and make that your top priority. Become familiar with your professors, classes, requirements. Find the library and if there's a student success center-that also.
Being a first generation University student is quite the honor and you've already made your family proud. Continue to build on the discipline you've established for yourself and you'll succeed.
I hope this helps.
Best of luck on your new journey!!!!
Enise Agel
141
Answers
Updated
Enise’s Answer
Hello Mercedes,
I can only advice what you can do before your academic year 2023-24 starts at the university. As you study abroad, you have to be prepared. The reason is that study abroad is something that you should do seriously. In terms of application, you should have documents that (the country) requested, your IELTS or TOEFL or specific exams from the country that have your exam results, your application to the university that you would like to study, and your belief to work smarter (nor harder) willingly. In order to study abroad, you should look at the university’s website, find your department and your major with courses, and surf the internet to find texts, books, articles before the academic year starts. During your academic year, you should ask many questions as you can to your professors, and their assistants (for those who study PhD at the university, or an assistant that works with the professor), meet with friends due to group works during the session with the professor. Do not forget to go to library at the university; it is beneficial to find your books, and work in the library. Likewise you can apply to extracurricular activities in order to gain soft and hard skills as well as emotional intelligence in your career. Once you have your books with you, you have to do your own research in order to prepare for assignments (mostly essays). During your assignments, you should read texts, articles, and books, and cite your all of these under the essay paper (you should follow the department citation guide, and cite each books, articles, and texts in styles (exp. Chicago style for literature). Do not forget to apply for accomodation, or sign an agreement with a landlord for renting.
I hope this helps
I can only advice what you can do before your academic year 2023-24 starts at the university. As you study abroad, you have to be prepared. The reason is that study abroad is something that you should do seriously. In terms of application, you should have documents that (the country) requested, your IELTS or TOEFL or specific exams from the country that have your exam results, your application to the university that you would like to study, and your belief to work smarter (nor harder) willingly. In order to study abroad, you should look at the university’s website, find your department and your major with courses, and surf the internet to find texts, books, articles before the academic year starts. During your academic year, you should ask many questions as you can to your professors, and their assistants (for those who study PhD at the university, or an assistant that works with the professor), meet with friends due to group works during the session with the professor. Do not forget to go to library at the university; it is beneficial to find your books, and work in the library. Likewise you can apply to extracurricular activities in order to gain soft and hard skills as well as emotional intelligence in your career. Once you have your books with you, you have to do your own research in order to prepare for assignments (mostly essays). During your assignments, you should read texts, articles, and books, and cite your all of these under the essay paper (you should follow the department citation guide, and cite each books, articles, and texts in styles (exp. Chicago style for literature). Do not forget to apply for accomodation, or sign an agreement with a landlord for renting.
I hope this helps
Thank you, this is really helpful.
Mercedes
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1227
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Mercedes !
I would like to share my experience so that you could have a bit of insight. I was second generation in college, though, and many members of my family had gone to college, one even studied partially abroad. But I did what you are going to do, only in the opposite direction. I moved from East Coast to West Coast for college.
For me it was excellent. Everything from new cultural awareness to meeting new people and friends. I had worked for a year prior to moving West and saved mostly all of my money to make this move and did it in the most frugal way possible. I was 17 at that time and my mother felt it best if she accompanied me on this transition so I had family support on both coasts. Contacts and support will mean everything. Once my mother saw that everything was in order, she went back home reassured.
I immediately applied for jobs and obtained a job that I liked in retail. I loved the co-workers and managers - it was wonderful. I quit that job upon enrolling in college and worked a Work Study job.
I think you'll do fine. You will find that the East Coast is a lot different than the West Coast. It even looks different, but you will happily adjust because it seemed for me that every day was an adventure. You may also meet some transplants from your state where you move to. You will be "the new girl in town" and for me it was fabulous !
I think a difference in being a first generation student is that someone like me just sort of had the influence of education around me all my life. Even though that is not your case and being the first one in your family to go to college, you have the desire and are taking the steps and that's what matters most. It may impact your experience or it may not. No one in college ever discussed with me if any of their other family went to college or not. Back in the day I went to college that was not a "thing", however returning students was a thing. That is when a lot of older women were making big changes in their lives and going to college at an older age for the first time. There were many on campus and they didn't seem to feel any different than us young folk. I am always someone who encourages anyone to take the step toward education.
So my advice for you is to earn and save money, make sure everything is situated firmly on the East Coast for your arrival and enjoy your new beginning in your new zip code ! I do wish you all the best and much success and happiness in your plans. I've been there, done that and can honestly say it was 100% worth it !
I would like to share my experience so that you could have a bit of insight. I was second generation in college, though, and many members of my family had gone to college, one even studied partially abroad. But I did what you are going to do, only in the opposite direction. I moved from East Coast to West Coast for college.
For me it was excellent. Everything from new cultural awareness to meeting new people and friends. I had worked for a year prior to moving West and saved mostly all of my money to make this move and did it in the most frugal way possible. I was 17 at that time and my mother felt it best if she accompanied me on this transition so I had family support on both coasts. Contacts and support will mean everything. Once my mother saw that everything was in order, she went back home reassured.
I immediately applied for jobs and obtained a job that I liked in retail. I loved the co-workers and managers - it was wonderful. I quit that job upon enrolling in college and worked a Work Study job.
I think you'll do fine. You will find that the East Coast is a lot different than the West Coast. It even looks different, but you will happily adjust because it seemed for me that every day was an adventure. You may also meet some transplants from your state where you move to. You will be "the new girl in town" and for me it was fabulous !
I think a difference in being a first generation student is that someone like me just sort of had the influence of education around me all my life. Even though that is not your case and being the first one in your family to go to college, you have the desire and are taking the steps and that's what matters most. It may impact your experience or it may not. No one in college ever discussed with me if any of their other family went to college or not. Back in the day I went to college that was not a "thing", however returning students was a thing. That is when a lot of older women were making big changes in their lives and going to college at an older age for the first time. There were many on campus and they didn't seem to feel any different than us young folk. I am always someone who encourages anyone to take the step toward education.
So my advice for you is to earn and save money, make sure everything is situated firmly on the East Coast for your arrival and enjoy your new beginning in your new zip code ! I do wish you all the best and much success and happiness in your plans. I've been there, done that and can honestly say it was 100% worth it !