What is your hometown? Boyle Heights, CA

What colleges did you attend? Degrees earned? Boston University - BS
Cal State Fullerton - MS.Ed.
Claremont Graduate University - Ph.D.

What motivated you to go to college? My motivation for pursuing my educational dreams was to honor my parents sacrifices and the desire to give back to my community.

Describe your college experience as first-generation. My college experience was overwhelming. Culture shock set in and not having my support group around me severely affected my academics and psych. My pride got in the way and kept me from asking the help I needed.

What unique challenges did you face? The biggest challenge was not having someone to turn to when I have a question or problem at school.

How did you overcome those challenges? I overcame my challenges by sucking up my pride and asking for help. Going to office hours to speak to my professors about material I did not understand, seeking out therapist to talk to about my problems, and finding other resources to help me destress and unwind.

What did you advise other first-generation students? Know that the juice is worth the squeeze. Your sacrifices will be worth it. Let go of your pride and ask for help. Colleges and universities are filled with professionals who want to help you succeed.