What is your hometown? Boyle Heights
What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? California State University Northridge
Bachelor of Arts: Sociology
Bachelor of Arts: Child and Adolescent Development
California State University Northridge
Masters of Science in Counseling, with an emphasize in College Counseling and Student Services
What motivated you to go to college? As a first generation college student and a child of immigrant parents, I did not imagine I would attend college, yet alone pursue a masters degree. I recall that growing up, I witnessed how my parents worked hard to provide my siblings and I a better life. I was inspired by their bravery, courage, strength, and determination to continue moving forward in life. My parents are my biggest motivators in life and I wanted to further my education to make them proud and to guide and support first generation college students in achieving their educational goal. I realized I was not the only one feeling college was not for them due to not knowing what college meant. I was highly motivated to make an impact.
Describe your college experience as first-generation. I was the first to attend college from both of my parents side of the family. I did not know anything about college and felt lost. Although entering college was very exciting, it was also scary. I soon learned about the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at California State University Northridge and quickly applied. Through EOP, I met mentors and built a community with other first generation college students. With the support of my mentors, I was able to get out of my comfort zone. I enjoyed my experience in college and definitely learned a lot about myself.
What unique challenges did you face? As a first-generation college student, I did not know how to ask questions. I was also unaware about the different support and services I was eligible to utilize for being a college student.
How did you overcome those challenges? The way I worked towards overcoming these challenges was to be more involved with different clubs and programs on campus. I would connect with individuals and also share about my interests, concerns, and struggles.
What did you advise other first-generation students? Being a first-gen student can be scary and overwhelming, but I advise to not be afraid to take opportunities, ask questions, or to get out of your comfort zone.
