Being a first-generation student has
offered a lot of different emotions.
Coming in I was nervous.
My parents were kind of unsure about me
going because I never went away.
I felt that my parents sacrificed so much for me to actually attend college and I
didn't want to let them down.
Senior year in high school, that was one
of the toughest years of my life because
I had to finally make a decision of what
I wanted to do.
I didn't have any experience from my parents or relatives to really draw on.
They were kind of nervous. I couldn't really ask them for help anyway
because I did the application process on my own.
I kind of felt on my own because I didn't visit schools.
I didn't know much about the application process.
I had a great deal of pressure
feeling I had to do well in school and I never
wanted to let my parents down.
I almost didn't even apply.
I was just really nervous. I
just didn't know what to expect but when
I got here I found myself getting involved and
finding my way and being surrounded by
great, supportive people.
I found a support system and it was through my peer mentor
who actually helped me
and was a first-generation college student.
The Honors College is very tight-knit.
She made me realize that I wasn't on my
own and she actually guided me,
told me, "These are the people you can talk to."
Going on walking tours and coffee
houses and other events for the Honors
College and speaking to advisers.
They do a lot of programs that allow us to meet
the students and the staff and faculty.
I had someone that I could lean on and that I could talk to.
It really allowed me to connect with my community and to meet new people.
I think that cleared up a lot of anxiety.
Being first in the family to go to
college is an amazing accomplishment and
we're so glad that out of all the places
you could have chosen to further your
academic career
you chose Rutgers–New Brunswick. We're
here to support you through this
transition from advisers to mentors,
social programming, and ever-increasing
leadership opportunities
the Honors College is here to challenge
and support you on your journey to
greatness.
Welcome to the Honors College, a great
place to be first-gen.
...And I wish you the best of luck!
