In BYU’s last graduating class, about 11% were considered first generation students [1]. Although there are many ways people consider what a first generation student is, it is generally accepted that the parents of these students did not complete a four year college degree, or that they have had very little exposure to college growing up [2]. Many times, these students face specific challenges that add more stress and unfamiliarity to an already challenging college experience. Studies show that the largest obstacles for these students are “lack of college readiness, familial support, and financial stability, racial underrepresentation, low academic self-esteem, and difficulty adjusting to college.” [3] This can be especially true if both parents are immigrants from another country.
Although first-generation students are sometimes underrepresented in some universities, 56% of undergraduates nationwide are first-generation [4]. This means that future leaders and trailblazers most likely are first generation students. First generation students need to know where to turn for resources and help as the college experience is already challenging on its own.
Some first generation students were willing to share their stories and give advice for those who need it. Brandon is a junior at BYU studying Exercise and Wellness. His parents immigrated from Mexico. Valeria is a senior majoring in Political Science. Like Brandon, her parents came from Mexico.
Q: How has your family's background shaped the major decisions you've made in your life?
Brandon: There are two sides to it. It has given me more drive to the things that my parents were not able to do. I also have felt more grateful for the opportunities that I have now. However, sometimes I get feelings of doubt and imposter syndrome because it feels like my parents never received a formal education, so I feel like the guinea pig of the family.
Valeria: It has made me want to work harder to be able to give back and make their sacrifice worth it. I have been more determined to take advantage of the opportunities and be grateful for their sacrifices.
Q: Growing up, are there any specific challenges you faced because of being a first generation?
Brandon: Growing up in a hispanic home, I have faced a language barrier where we spoke Spanish at home, but I had to learn English at school and outside the home. When it came to applying to college, because my parents had not gone through the process, I was unsure what to do.
Valeria: I did not have anyone I could ask for help, and I had to learn as I went. Since my parents were learning English, I had to work a little harder to catch up to everyone else.
Q: Some students fear that pursuing a college education or accomplishing significant goals might lead to a cultural and relatability gap with their family. What guidance would you offer to those torn between honoring family traditions and values and achieving personal goals, especially when there's a concern about potential resentment from their family?
Brandon: I don’t think it should be looked at in a negative way. You have to look at it in a way where you are honoring your parents and their sacrifices to build something better for future generations. There are times where you feel lonely or the outcast of the family, but you have to look at the big picture.
Valeria: Become your best friend and follow your dreams. Offer yourself the same grace you would to anyone else. You are being a role model in more ways than you think you are, and I am not sure how, but the sacrifices will be worth it. Trust God, He is the one who knows all.
Q: What do your accomplishments mean to your family?
Brandon: It means a lot to them, but it does not change my worth in their eyes. Even if I didn’t go to college, they still love me the same and are proud of me no matter what.
Valeria: It makes them proud. I’ve noticed they like sharing with others of my accomplishments as a way to show their sacrifices and feeling grateful I am able to pursue my dreams and taking opportunities that they were not able to.
Q: What advice do you have to first gen/second gen students at byu who feel like they are disadvantaged or not sure where to turn for help?
Brandon: I would talk to friends who have experience with college and advisors. Get to know the first generation college students on campus so that you can relate to them and you feel like you are not alone.
Valeria: Find mentors and don’t be afraid to rely on them. It was scary at first for me to talk to my professors, but they are there to help you. Take advantage of those resources. Believe in your worth and know you have as much to offer than any other student at BYU.
Universities should make a concerted effort to provide the resources required to help first-generation students succeed. Students who have family members who have attended college should be aware of the special problems these students face and offer assistance wherever possible.
