Profiles

Chemistry PhD alum Jonathan Cox spent most of 2025 in Kyrgyzstan, helping farmers improve their soil—and their crops—through soil testing. 

UW School of Music alum Andrea Roberts, an audio engineer, has worked with recording artists in a wide range of genres — including Beyoncé.

Michael Seguin studied Classics at the UW and now owns Baltimore's Mobtown Ballroom. The two interests, he says, are more connected than they might seem.

Thuc Nhi Nguyen got her start the UW Daily. Now she's a sports reporter for Los Angeles Times, writing about the Lakers and the Olympics. 

Geography major Edwin Bai has researched private cities, developed by individuals and corporations, that  "take the libertarian idea of low government regulation to the maximum." 

"I cannot stress enough the importance of not letting the sacrifice your parents made go to waste. Fulfill their dreams. This advice has helped me when I am doubting myself and my ability to achieve my dreams. I think of my family, and every time they made a sacrifice to give me the opportunity to study." – Ashlee Senda, Student

"I decided to come to the UW after participating in the Path to UW seminar during the summer of 2023. During that experience, I met friends for life, felt truly heard and included, and realized that the UW offers the perfect environment for me to grow both personally and academically." – Francine Myles, Student

"You don’t have to have everything already figured out to belong here. You are enough just by virtue of being you. Ask for help, build community, and remember that the path you’re walking honors not just your own story, but the ancestors who made it possible." – CS W. Henry, Student

"When I met my mentors, I knew the UW was the right place for me. It felt like joining a community that not only values research and discovery but also welcomes diversity. Being here has given me the chance to grow as both a scientist and a person." – Laura Quinche, 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

"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

"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

"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

"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

"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