The UW is Lucky to Have You
You're not just on the right path, you are paving the path. You're not lucky to be here, here is lucky to have you. Being the first person in my family to go to college has meant that I enter every space as an excavator, a fugitive, a conspirator, a fighter, a bridge builder, a fire starter, and an advocate for myself and for my communities.
Julie Feng
BA, English (Creative Writing); MA, Cultural Studies (UW Bothell); PhD, Communication
FIND A HOMEBASE TO GROUND YOURSELF
If you feel uncomfortable, you’re doing something right. We evolve as much as we allow ourselves to, so situate yourself in new spaces that stretch your own understanding of who you are and what you’re capable of. And if you make others uncomfortable, even better because then you’re having the world grow with you. It’s good to have a homebase, a safe space where you can return to ground yourself — perhaps a place or a person that will remind you who you are at core, and where you come from. But remember you don’t know what you don’t know, so mess around and find out.
Leo Carmona
BA, Psychology
DON’T COMPARE YOURSELF TO OTHERS
Your journey is unique, on its own timeline, and should not be compared with others. If you find yourself inclined to pursue a dream despite the uncertainty it might bring, then you absolutely must go for it. Avoid making decisions based on the opinions of others or out of fear because only you know your full capabilities.
Tiana Cole
BA, Communication (Journalism and Public Interest Communications)
LEAVE YOUR COMFORT ZONE
Most of the experiences that allowed me to grow the most as a student were the ones outside of my comfort zone. Looking back, I am so grateful that I went for them. The highlights of my Husky experience extend beyond classrooms as I developed meaningful connections with incredible mentors and peers across campus and participated in groups that I will always be grateful to have been a part of. Tap into your passions and curiosity, and you may find yourself learning new things and meeting new people that you did not expect coming into this journey.
Annie Chan
BA, Communication
FROM CONFUSION, FIND OPPORTUNITY
From my extended experience as a first-gen student, the most important thing is to acknowledge what you do not know. Treat every moment of confusion as an opportunity to build your collection of knowledge and every new environment or experience as a pathway to learn more about yourself.
Adrian Guerrero
PhD, Chemistry
ASK QUESTIONS, AND MORE QUESTIONS, AND…
I would encourage first-gen students to never stop asking questions. I was often far too shy to do this during my undergraduate years. It took a long time to figure out how things worked and even longer to figure out how to succeed in academic spaces. There are UW employees whose sole role is to support you in this journey so find out who they are! It is normal to feel vulnerable. I still get shaky legs when I go into a new space, but that is mainly because I keep challenging myself to try new things.
Tasha Mosher
MA, Applied Child & Adolescent Psychology
DON’T FORGET TO HAVE FUN
Obtaining a degree should be a joyful experience. At times, it felt like I shouldn't allow myself to have fun and should only focus on academics. Having to pay for my college education also felt like I should always prioritize saving every penny. However, the UW experience is more than immersing yourself in textbooks; it is about connecting with others on campus and learning more about yourself. Yes, you can definitely plan out that trip abroad and go to that concert after clocking out from your part-time job — it's all about balance.
Fani Medel Martinez
BA, Communication
PURSUE PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
Many times as first-generation students, we can become so focused on navigating our coursework that we might overlook valuable professional opportunities or feel hesitant to apply for them. I've been there. Now, I find myself working to catch up. So don't hesitate — apply for that internship, take a chance on that job opening, sign up for that workshop, and reach out to professors or TAs about research opportunities. Trust that inner voice guiding you. It's a crucial step in making the most of your educational journey.
Elizabeth Nova
PhD, Sociology
DO WHAT YOU LOVE
Don’t be afraid of making a change to your career plans if your interests evolve as you dive into your studies. You have already broken boundaries as a first-gen student; you should get to do what you love for a career.
Jacob Russell
PhD, Chemistry
BE PROUD — YOU’RE A PIONEER!
First-generation students are pioneers. No one before us had the opportunity to do what we’re doing right now. My first-generation, non-traditional, transfer student background is something I am incredibly proud of. It requires immense determination and resilience to continue moving forward into this wild unknown. Cultivate your support system, establish routines that nourish your mental, physical, and emotional health, and ask for help every time you need it. Remember: You are legitimate proof that anything is possible and you are worthy of success right now, as you are. Don't let anyone or anything keep you from achieving your dreams. You got this!
Audrey Mikal
BA, Sociology