- My name is Leona
and I'm a first-generation student.
(soft piano music)
My parents migrated here from Jamaica
20 years ago to seek a better life
for me and my family.
There was no other option
other than get a good education
and that's how you can get a good job.
When I found out about the
First-Generation Student Success office
it took a lot off of my shoulders.
I was very relieved
because my parents didn't know what to do
so when I first got to the office
they tried to find out about my life first
and how they could properly help me.
So, there was a lady in there,
she helped me get into the Rise program
which helps a lot of
first-generation students
with their books
because books can get expensive.
I actually got my first job there
and it's really opened my eyes
to see the impact that I can have on other
first-generation students,
so without the office I don't even know
if I would have made it this far.
First and Proud is a
registered student organization
on campus for first-generation students.
Being part of this club has
showed me my leadership skills,
because I didn't know
that I can be a leader,
because I'm Vice President now,
so it's really showed me like,
"wow, I have a big impact on students".
I do communicate with my
family back in Jamaica
and a lot of times the women,
after high school,
they typically don't
continue their education
so I realize that my
parents made a big sacrifice
coming here to give me a better life.
Next summer I graduate with my
Bachelor's in social work
with a minor in sociology,
and I will be continuing
my education here at FAU
with my Master's in social work.
My advice to students
is to just ask for help,
seek the help,
because we all need help
in some way, shape or form
and you'll be surprised at the outcome
if you just put your pride aside
and ask the questions
that you need to ask.
(upbeat music)
