I was in the first gen program and it
really helped me just because the things
that I felt like I couldn't say were
said here and the things that I felt
like I couldn't ask they wanted me to
ask like it was a really inclusive
program for me
when I was here last year I didn't go to
any of these and like I really wish I
did because it's really insightful I
hope I guess just to pass on some
knowledge to the other first-generation
students a big thing that they have us
here for is just to relate to the
students it's just cool to not feel
alone and to have that automatic bond
that you have with like the first gen
students for Christians alike I think
it's important to be vocal and to talk
about your stories like those are your
empowering qualities and as first gens
we have a really unique trait to us I
guess that makes us strong and powerful
and I want them to know that and embrace
it because it does help you in the
future I'm lucky I'm really lucky to
even be here talking to you right now
knowing that there's a workshop
happening there's snacks being put out
when last year our budget was like tiny
compared to right I mean and to see them
and then see these students come in I
feel really honored because it wouldn't
have been possible without everyone else
so it's so amazing to see this so I came
to UT fact almost 25 years ago as a
first gen student my parents are both
immigrants from Korea so for me when I
went to college was a different
environment because I went to a small
school I think that shock factor it made
a huge impact on my life because my
freshman year wasn't that successful for
me this is why this is a
of mine so that I know that students
hopefully wouldn't have to go through
all the things that I went through I
think that the one thing I hope that they
remember is that they're not alone and
yes they're lucky to be here on the 40
acres but UT is honored beyond honored
to have them strolling across campus
being in those classrooms graduating
when they do and carrying that name for
UT Austin UT is honored tablet and I
hope they continue to be a trailblazer
and that they continue to carry on their
own legacy for the person next to them
