Community

Comunidad

First-generation students make up approximately one-third of the student population in American universities.

Despite the hardships and challenges, we continue to persevere and empower one another.

We are proud to be first-generation students.

Stories From the Community

Historias de la Comunidad

“First-generation does not mean that we are the first generation of fighters, but we are the first to take our fight beyond society's expectations. I continue my fight because no one expects a Black kid from Chicago to become a successful man. First-generation students fight to be the example and the change in social norms. We band together as a community to support each other and push the next student to be great. Most importantly, we are the emblem of success for our families and for ourselves.”

— Lavelle Brown

A first-generation student at St. Edward’s University

“My dad always taught me to have a plan. Whether it be one you’re following or a backup if you change your mind or things don’t turn out as expected. Ultimately, whatever plan you follow will lead you to where you need to be. Mine led me to UT.”

— Brenda Ugarte

A non-traditional, first-generation student at The University of Texas at Austin

“In many ways being first-generation is part of being a transformative-generation. You're not only trying to navigate unfamiliar ways of schooling, but you're also negotiating what it means to be professional; you're discovering new opportunities while refining your notions of success and accomplishment. It means recognizing that you're simultaneously honoring the generations that came before you and the generations after you.”