All Stories

"I try to ensure that students never feel embarrassment at not knowing something. Learning should be a fun and exciting experience, unhindered by fears of not knowing the social rules of the college experience." – Rebakah Daro Minarchek, Associate Teaching Professor

A bilingual educator with 18 years of experience at both the college level and in K–12 public schools, Whitemarsh hopes to give back to her hometown of Pasco.

In the College of Arts & Sciences, we are proud to celebrate our first-generation community through a collection of stories! We honor our students and alumni, and their many contributions to our university community and beyond.

In the College of Arts & Sciences, we are proud to celebrate our first-generation community through a collection of stories! We honor our faculty and staff, and their many contributions to our university community and beyond.

"My passion for chemistry and English became my compass, opening new doors and driving me step by step to where I am today – the University of Washington. To me, being a first-generation student means breaking barriers and carrying my family’s dreams across borders and transforming them into opportunities." – Perizat Kanatkyzy Abdigali, Student

"I see being first-gen as powerful because it represents the first step in changing my life and the lives of my loved ones. It motivates me to pursue the goals I have always wanted, reminding me that I have the power to create something beautiful." – Anna Frank, Student

"You are remarkable for becoming the first trailblazer in your family's intellectual journey... Celebrate that victory and keep that fire burning as you chart the educational trajectory for your family's future generations." – Andri Fernanda, Student

"Being a first-generation student holds great significance for me, as I am the first in my family to attend the University of Washington. This is a major milestone, and I feel privileged to be part of such an esteemed institution." – Jackie Hernandez, Student

"I want to encourage you all to recognize the virtues that come from each of your backgrounds. There is a strength that comes from being first-gen, and I hope that you all can recognize it within yourselves." – Dan Guyer, Student

"I remember strolling across the UW campus during my first quarter, treading on crisp autumn leaves, and realizing that I have built a life here that once seemed impossible. I don't say this often, but I am really grateful for how far I have come. For current and future first-gen students — remember, your background is your strength." – Anjali Yadav, Student