The Difficult Journey of First Generation Students


 By Jeorgia Jahumpa





Stonehill first-generation students said that the road to higher education is a difficult journey full of trial and error.

“Being a first-generation student has a lot of trials and errors but one thing I have learned throughout my experiences is that I have learned to advocate for myself,” said Glendale Alvarez, ’21.

The Center for First-Generation Student Success defines a first-generation college student as a student whose parents did not attend or complete a four-year degree.

According to a study conducted by the center during the 2015-2016 academic year, 56% of college students nationwide were first-generation college students. Most of these students persisted after their first year and received their bachelor’s degree, with 82% of students from public colleges, 80% from private non-profit institutions, and 76% from private for-profit institutions. 

The study also said that during their first year in post-secondary education, 65% of first-generation students used financial aid services, however, fewer first-generation students used health services, academic advising and supports services, and career services.

Shannon Balliro, the interim director for Academic Services and Advising at Stonehill College, said that the population of first-generation college students has increased, especially black and indigenous people of color. 

She said that a handful of Stonehill first-generation students use academic services but understands why some do not reach out for help.

“I believe that is due to the additional barriers first-gen students face when it comes to accessing any on-campus services.  You don’t know what you don’t know, and many first-gens don’t know what is available to them,” said. Balliro

A few first-generation Stonehill students said people helped them when they were first applying for colleges. 

Desiree Ruiz-Ramoz, ‘23, said that her school counselor and psychology teacher helped her.

“I had to go to my school counselor countless times. I also turned to teachers mainly my psychology teacher. They gave me insight on the realities of college culture/life. They helped fill out the common app and how use the college board. Without them I don’t know how my college application journey would have led to my acceptance and attendance in college,” said Ruiz-Ramos.

Other first-generation students said they had to figure everything out on their own. 

Melanie Barbosa, ’23, said she had to use Google when learning how to apply for colleges because she did not have anyone to help her.

“I didn’t have anyone guiding me. Maybe a cousin or sibling who said a couple things to me, but I never had a person to guide me all the way through. I did have school, but during my senior year guidance counselors and teachers are very busy,” said Barbosa.

Balliro said first generation students face many issues including a general lack of academic preparedness, not knowing what it means to be a college student, imposter syndrome, and responsibilities such as jobs and helping to pay bills at home.

“How can we focus on being a student when I work 3 jobs and have to help with the bills at home?” Balliro said.

Despite these challenges, first generation students said they persisted. 

Alvarez said that being a first-generation student brings her joy and resiliency.

“Being a first-generation student allows me to be comfortable with the fact I will have more challenges compared to others, but I know that I have a community to support my goals,” Alvarez said.

Stonehill first-generation students offered a piece of advice to incoming first-generation students applying to college. 

Ruiz-Ramoz encouraged students to use their voices and speak up.

“Ask, speak up, and advocate for yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or demand help. Look for mentors who have gone through this process and sit with them. Ask them what you need help with and have these conversations early. Begin your junior year of high school, start doing your research and go for it,” Ruiz-Ramoz said.

Barbosa said that the road to higher education does not get any easier.

“It gets hard at times. I honestly still learning how this all works myself, and no matter where you go, you will still be learning how to navigate being a college student. But you should find someone to motivate you or someone who will be there for you when you need help. Having that one person that understands you makes you feel less alone,” said Barbosa.

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