My Experience as a First-Generation Student

I’m a first-generation college student. In high school, I moved from Naples, Fl. to Bensalem, Pa. with my mom. A short time later, I moved in with my grandfather due to conflicts with my mother. My story is unique to me, but many first-generation college students have similar experiences that present their own challenges. Over half of undergraduate students in the United States are first generation students with their own unique stories (Center for First-Generation Student Success).

THE CHALLENGES APPLYING FOR COLLEGE

My support system didn’t give me much guidance when it came to applying for college, but I knew I wanted to attend as I saw it as my best bet for creating a bright future. My mom’s side of the family had high expectations for me to attend nursing school, so that was the idea I clung to despite it not really being something I wanted to do. I only applied to two schools, one of which was Holy Family University, because my high school had a relationship with the University, providing me with an easy branch of communication. I committed to the school without ever visiting campus.

FEDERAL APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL STUDENT AID, AKA, FAFSA

Figuring out financial aid and my FAFSA was a nightmare at first. I was told that I needed to report a parent’s income on my form even though I was paying for everything related to my school expenses. My mom couldn’t provide her information, but thankfully, my dad in Florida let me use his. This led to more complicated issues related to in-state versus out-of-state rates that I didn’t see coming. After an arduous journey, it was eventually resolved, and I was relieved. I funded my education through state grants, scholarships, and loans. Throughout my colleg education, I worked multiple jobs to afford costs such as food, credit card debt and other living expenses. Without the help of friends, family and generous scholarship donors, I wouldn’t have gotten as far as I have.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT

Many first-generation students end up at the most convenient school, but that doesn’t always mean it is the right fit. I attended Holy Family for two years in their nursing program before deciding to pursue my passion for working with wildlife. My dad from Florida (who is technically my adoptive father), and my biological dad, along with that side of my family, have always been supportive and helpful in any way possible. They had no issue with me switching my major and were kind while I was going through the process. I recalled a conversation that I had with a co-worker several years earlier. She was attending DelVal and I was still in high school. She was pursuing a career in dairy and always spoke highly about DVU, especially A-Day. I applied for the Conservation and Wildlife program, toured the school, and ultimately made the best decision for me by transferring to DelVal.

SUCCESS AT DELVAL AS A FIRST-GENERATION STUDENT

I did not really have any expectations when I joined Delaware Valley University in terms of college life, but I was excited and ready to see what it was all about. Once I started socializing more, I was able to fully experience college life and what the campus really had to offer. I found attending events or even just agreeing to help with random events around campus was a great way to meet new people and involve myself with the campus community. I feel I have adjusted well to college life, and through my work as an RA, I am able to help others adjust as well. I also have to thank the Students for Diversity Club and the Student Programming Board. These two organizations provide a lot of opportunities for students to get to know each other. The individuals put a lot of care into planning the events and it always shows in the end. Honestly, I never really thought of myself as a first-generation college student until I was asked about it. I know that I have a lot of family who know the work I have put into attending college, and I am sure they will be very excited when I finish in December and walk across the stage. My Experience as a First-Generation Student.