ʻIhilani lasconia
“If there is one thing I could share with first-gen students about navigating their way through college it’s that the communities they come from have already done so much to prepare them to succeed on their journey in Higher Education. Just because this environment is different doesn’t mean you don’t belong. Take all your life experience and apply that to everything you do in college, it will give you a unique perspective that’s grounded in your community.”
Racquel Raneses
“I am proud to be first generation because I took my education into my own hands and sought out the knowledge that will help propel my family and I forward. I am now in my MSW program and is applying for my PhD in Public Health. I hated school growing up because I struggled tremendously and was teased for being “FOB.” The more I was teased, the more I struggled with the acceptance of my uniqueness in cultural identity. College allowed me to change my narrative of shame and see the true beauty and richness of my cultural identity as a Ilokano and Waray woman.”
Robin Ribac
“One piece of advice is that none of us first-generation college students really know what we are doing. We are all trying to navigate this newfound land without our parents help, so yes, it will be a bit frustrating. However, we do know where we want to be in the future (hence, why we are here, in college, in the first place), and as long as you ask for help from the people around you, you’ll realize that you aren’t alone and there are people out there who are willing to help. Its just a matter of asking.”
