What Inspired Me to Pursue a College Degree

As a first-generation college student, let me just say, going to college felt like the only ticket out of the trenches. It was my way of upgrading not only my life, but my family’s too. So, if I had to pinpoint who or what inspired me, it's definitely my family. Growing up, I saw the blood sweat and tears my parents put in just to keep us moving forward. In a way, my college degree is for them as much as it’s for me—a path to a brighter, more comfortable life for all of us.

Challenges I Faced Along the Way

Oh, the struggles. The biggest challenge was trying to figure out what you even need for college. I lived in another state before moving to Indiana, and my previous high school was… well, let’s just say "hands-off." I never even met my high school counselor, so picking classes was a shot in the dark. I just picked the basics needed to graduate and called it a day. The only “advanced” class I had for three years was Honors English—because my 8th-grade English teacher recommended it.

When I moved to Indiana in my senior year of high school, things got serious. My new counselor was incredible, finally guiding me on what I needed to do to get into college. Senior year turned into an academic boot camp, where I had to learn how to study and keep up. It was tough, but I graduated with honors thanks to the support I got. Now, I’m the one helping my younger siblings with their class schedules, showing them the ropes I wish I’d had.

What Has Kept Me Going?

Honestly? Just thinking about the future. Even if the journey’s rough and full of potholes, I know there’s a finish line. Having hope that things will get better keeps me moving forward, even on the toughest days. Thinking about a spacious 3-bedroom apartment with 2 cats is enough to keep me going.

Support Systems on Campus

If I could give one piece of advice to incoming students, it’s this: use your career center and plan ahead. They’re amazing at helping you shape your resume, practice interviews, and get you ready for the real world. Even as a freshman, it’s smart to start thinking about your future.

And hey, useTimelyCareorCounseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)at the Student Health Center. Whenever you’re feeling low or struggling with motivation, CAPS is there for you. Trust me, having someone to talk to when the blues hit can be a lifesaver.

Finding Community on Campus

I’m a pre-health major, so most of the groups I’ve joined are health related. It’s nice finding like-minded people who get the grind and are willing to support each other. Community is everything, especially when you’re away from home for the first time.

Advice for Incoming First-Gen Students

Seek help as soon as you sense a problem. Don’t sit on it, don’t overthink it. Got a tough class? Don’t wait until you’re neck-deep in assignments and staring down an F. Schedule a meeting with your advisor ASAP. This semester, I took a class I was clearly not ready for, and I waited too long to get help. I ended up with a W instead of an F, thanks to a last-minute drop-in with my advisor. I could have avoided that whole mess if I’d just reached out sooner.

Living on My Own for the First Time

Living alone was a whole new experience. I went from sharing a bedroom with my sister and a house with five other people to having my own space. The first week was all fun and games, but once classes started and everyone got busy, the silence hit hard. I had some serious mopey moments in that quiet dorm room.

My advice? Make it cozy. Stock up on snacks, grab a warm blanket, throw on some fairy lights, and settle in for a quiet night. Binge-watch the shows you’ve been putting off or dive into a good book. Pro tip: Play a "mystery vibes" or "cozy in bed" playlist, or even some rain sounds. There’s something therapeutic about it, and it helps you truly embrace the peace.

Being a first-gen college student is a ride—sometimes bumpy, sometimes smooth, but always worth it. For every challenge, there’s been growth in making the best of each moment and struggle. Each small win is that much more rewarding.