What is your hometown? Corona, CA
What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? St. Catherine University; St. Paul, MN-- Bachelor's in Biology & Chemistry
Cal State Fullerton-- Master's in Higher Education
What motivated you to go to college? My mom. My mom was a single mom who was, and continues to be, the most resilient person I know. She worked so incredibly hard to support her parents and to support me and make sure I never needed anything. I wanted to go to college to show that I was grateful for her support, to make sure I could also support her in the future, and prove to her that all the hard work she invested in me as her daughter, was not in vain.
Describe your college experience as first-generation. My undergraduate college experience was unique in that I went to school out of state. It was my first time ever leaving home, and I found myself in a state that was completely different from California and alone, with no friends or family to support me. It was hard to navigate college alone, but it forced me to grow and mature in a way that I don't think would have happened had I stayed home.
What unique challenges did you face? As a first-generation student that was alone in another state, I definitely ran into quite a few challenges. I didn't always know what I was doing and I didn't really have the ability to ask my family since they had not gone to college either. It felt like a huge uphill battle to figure out all the complexities of navigating college and arranging financial aid.
How did you overcome those challenges? By reminding myself of my "why" and asking all the questions! My mom would always say, if you don't know something ask! Thankfully I was able to find support systems and mentors at my college that were always willing to help me and answer questions and ultimately teach me what I needed to know to survive and push through.
What did you advise other first-generation students? If you don't know something, ask! There is no harm in asking questions or asking for help. There is no shame in not knowing. Also, don't be afraid to think big and take a leap! It was so scary to me to think of leaving home (and California) for college, but it was the BEST decision I ever made even though it was one of the hardest things I ever did.
