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For First-Gen Niners from First-Gen Niners

ADVICE FOR FIRST-GEN NINERS FROM FIRST-GEN NINERS

At the end of each academic year, we ask First-Generation Niners what advice they would give to incoming and continuing First-Generation Niners. See what they had to say below!

  • You should remember to prioritize your health and happiness when making decisions because they will enable you to follow the path you want in life. A bad grade won't define you, but making poor decisions when it comes to your health (like skipping meals or sleep to study) can have lasting consequences.
  • Be the best version of yourself! Be sure to celebrate you and your own accomplishments!
  • Be yourself, work hard, and be proactive! Do not be scared to seek resources for yourself. Sometimes you will feel misunderstood or have imposter syndrome, but you belong here as much as everyone else deserves to be here.
  • Keep advocating for yourself!
  • Being a First-Generation college student is a powerful journey of growth, resilience, and opportunity. Find mentors who can offer valuable guidance and perspective, and always prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Being a student is a huge accomplishment. Be proud of your decision and celebrate your wins!
  • Don’t waste time, but don’t overextend yourself! Make sure you prioritize your future, but don’t forget to take a breather and celebrate successes (even the small ones).
  • Imposter syndrome might creep in, but remember—you are capable and will accomplish so much more than you realize. Keep pushing forward, you’ve got this! Imposter syndrome is hard to battle, but you are where you need to be.
  • You are worth being here, and you are allowed to take up space. I hope you continue to take time to appreciate all the obstacles you surpassed. You are smart enough. Everyday is to help yourself get closer to a higher education.
  • Remember it's not how you start, but it's how you finish. Keep your head held high. Be assured knowing that if you hit rock bottom, there's only one way to go. Up.
  • There will be days when you feel like you do not belong, when the stress feels unbearable, and when quitting seems like the easiest option. You might sit in a classroom full of people who seem to have it all figured out while you’re still learning how to navigate financial aid, office hours, and the unspoken rules of college. It’s frustrating, it’s isolating, and sometimes, it feels like no one else understands. But I promise you, hundreds of us do. You are not alone in this. There is an entire community of people who have walked this road before you and are rooting for you to keep going. Lean on your professors, your classmates, and the people who see your potential even when you don’t. Ask the questions, take up space, and never be afraid to admit when you’re struggling. Because the truth is, the hard days will come—but so will the moments when you realize just how strong, capable, and worthy you are. And when you walk across that stage, every doubt, every late night, and every struggle will be worth it! You’re meant to be here.
  • Progress > Perfection
  • Understand that you earned the seat in your classrooms. Understand that you had to achieve goals to be accepted into this institution, overcame obstacles some may see as impossible, and crossed new bridges as for generations before you built them brick by brick. If it was easy, anyone could do it. These next steps in your academic career may not be easy, but remember you got here, you’re doing it, and you’re worthy of it too.
  • There’s no such thing as too late. Change your major if it doesn’t suit you, change your environment if it is not benefiting you, change your mindset if it is hindering your success. You are in control of your life, and your ability to succeed depends on the choices you make everyday. However, remember to take breaks when needed because you are not a machine. You got this!
  • College is to educate and expand your ideas not to receive a piece of paper at the end. Do something with your college experience, do not be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and expand your mindset.  College is a playground, don't be afraid to fall off! You will, but when you do, get back up. 
  • Take full advantage of all the resources available on campus! Seriously, familiarize yourself with them—there’s more than you probably realize. UNC Charlotte offers its students so much, from career services to mental health support, academic resources, and more. Looking back, I wish I had tapped into more of these opportunities. Don’t make the same mistake; make the most of everything this campus has to offer!
  • Enjoy the vast amount of reliable resources UNC Charlotte offers, whether that’s going to student organizations or getting help from advisors etc. It’s always good to experience the resources provided. Love how beautiful and diversified our community is. There’s nothing better than getting to know different cultures, experiences and making friends along that process.
  • College is a journey filled with opportunities, challenges, and growth. Stay focused, get involved, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are so many people here to support you. Take it one step at a time, and enjoy the experience!
  • Embrace every opportunity, and never be afraid to ask for help. Seek out mentorship, get involved in organizations that align with your passions, and remember that your journey is just as valid as anyone else’s. Most importantly, believe in yourself! You belong here, and your hard work will take you further than you can imagine!
  • Rather than allowing the stress to overtake your positive attitude towards the process of getting your degree,  take in the opportunity to learn. It may feel like you have a lot on your plate with no one in your family to share it with, but you can reach out to anyone on campus for info/help! 
  • Use these years to find yourself, your passion, what drives you, and remember that you are the creator of your own walk of life. Continue to pass down your knowledge to those that are incoming, and help your neighbor. But most of all chase your dreams and do not be afraid to ask for help.
  • Things like navigating college life, figuring out the campus, and balancing new challenge can feel like a lot. It's important to remember that you're not alone. There are resources available, like academic advising, counseling, student organizations, or workshops designed specifically for First-Gen students. Don’t hesitate to reach out. Everyone's path to success is different, and it's okay to ask questions and seek guidance.
  • Lean on your professors! Get to know them, talk to them, and go to their office hours. They want to help you!
  • Study! Use resources for help like PAL, Quizlet, and tutoring! Avoid getting behind, anticipate your week, and do your best to prepare.
  • Navigating through the experience of being the first to go to college is tough. Figuring out how to fill out your FASFA, apply for scholarships, and even applying to the university is an adventure. Scrambling to get your parents' information and getting frustrated is all part of the process! As you go through it all, please give yourself credit. You are strong and if anyone can do it, it’s you. Be proud of yourself. You made it here, and it will be worth it!
  • It doesn't matter how long it takes you to finish your degree. Go at your pace, get involved on campus, and make that time count. You'll get through it!
  • Talk to your advisor! They have resources to help you get everything you need to succeed.
  • Don't let a bad grade turn into a bad semester. We all struggle sometimes, and we WILL overcome.
  • Pursue Co-ops, build a project portfolio and develop a personal brand.
  • Do not procrastinate! Do your homework as soon as you receive it. If you pursue a degree in Mathematics, try to pair it with Engineering/Computer Science.
  • Take pride in everything you do, whether it is the things that you have accomplished thus far or what you will accomplish in the future.
  • Definitely never be afraid to ask questions to your professors in or out of class. Asking a simple question about something you didn’t understand in class can save you hours of frustration trying to forcefully understand it yourself.
  • Review your lecture notes and readings after each class to reinforce your understanding, rather than cramming before an exam. Break the material into manageable chunks, use active recall techniques, and apply what you’ve learned through practice problems or discussions. Building consistent study habits will make exams less stressful and improve long-term retention.
  • Make sure you use every department and resource available to you. You can achieve this dream.
  • If you need help, don't hesitate to go to a TA's/professor's office hours or tutoring (UCAE and the Fretwell Math Center are great!). It's actually not as scary as asking in class! They are there rooting for you to succeed, so if you don't know the answer, find someone who will :)
  • Take every opportunity that comes your way, even if it feels outside your comfort zone. As a First-Generation student, every experience—whether it’s joining a club, applying for an internship, or seeking mentorship—can open doors you never imagined. 
  • You can grind it out and work hard, but don't forget the little things that comes with the college experience. Don't be afraid to reach out to find your community, go to campus events and clubs. Do not forget to be a human first and a student second :)
  • Use all of the resources and opportunities provided for you. Get involved in clubs, go to professors' office hours, contact your TAs for help, etc. Most importantly put yourself out there and enjoy college.
  • Go to sports games, walk around campus, attend events, make friends, get out of your comfort zone, don't be afraid to raise your hand in class, and never stop learning.
  • Be active in clubs, it is the best way to make the most out of your years in college. It also look great for resumes as it shows your involvement with both school and team building.
  • Seek any opportunity you can to work on campus. The connections and skills that a student employee picks up are invaluable.
  • Get involved! I was lucky to be on three different executive boards for organizations while also being an active member of many other organizations. It was the best decision I made in my college career. It helped me find lifelong friendships, career opportunities, and a chance to help my community here at UNC Charlotte.
  • Try to participate in organizations that interest you to develop a sense of community on campus. Fostering friendships can help you navigate college.
  • Join some intramurals.
  • Get connected now. I didn't know much about Transition & Belonging or that there were resources for First-Generation Niners until other students told me about it. If you have the time, you should really immerse yourself into it. That goes for any organization.
  • I recommend going to campus events on your own because you never know who you will meet.
  • Don't feel pressured to change your mind about anything you want to pursue, I know it feels like you might be letting down your community/family/culture by changing your goals but you are not!
  • Live the college life, just because you are First-Generation doesn’t make you any different or less capable from any other college student.
  • College is a journey filled with opportunities, challenges, and growth. Stay focused, get involved, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are so many people here to support you. Take it one step at a time, and enjoy the experience!
  • Make your college experience your own. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, and move at your own pace. This is just the start. Don't compare yourself to others. Everyone's road is different.
  • Never feel small for being the first. We are the first to earn an education, and that is a badge of honor. Our families worked with their hands for us to work with our minds. Everyday is an opportunity to show up for our communities, and I hope that you reach out to professors to find opportunities that will elevate your university experience. Always give thanks and have grace for yourself in the moments that you fall short.
  • Getting a degree is not easy; there are no shortcuts or loopholes. It's you and your education. It's yours to shape however you see fit. You are making it fit your dreams, your passion, how you want your life to be. Things are not going to be perfect, and you may have to pivot or pick up a few more books than you thought. It is all worth it if you want it. Remember that it is not just about the end product or the accomplishment, but it is also about the journey you took to get there. It is the good, the bad, the great, the sad, the excitement, and everything between. It was the 11:59 pm due date, the anticipation of a test grade, it was the waiting to see if you were accepted, it was the first day you walked in class, it was the first time you failed, and final grades showing that you passed. The journey is what is beautiful, and the accomplishment of the degree is the cover that holds all of your hard work.
  • Don't blink because it goes by so fast. Cherish all the moments, even the hard ones. One day you will look back and it will all have been worth it. UNCC is such a special place to call home, and it helps you find your people. Never be afraid to put yourself out there because I did, and it changed my life forever. You are strong, capable, and worthy of this education. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! I will miss this season of my life dearly!
  • Always know that you will find your way! Even if you are struggling in classes, you switch majors, or you get a degree plus more courses, you can still change your mind! Study abroad if you can!!
  • Don't let your fears or worries keep you from trying new things. Everyone is scared, so just take the first step whether it is going to an event, talking to someone in class, meeting your professors, or seeking out clubs to join!
  • If you have a passion for something and want to explore it, Charlotte is there for you!
  • Be authentic. Where there is authenticity, there is success. Do not lose yourself trying to fit in.
  • Stay resilient, stay determined, and never underestimate your potential. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, both inside and outside of the classroom.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask questions, advocate for yourself, and embrace challenges. You are paving the way for yourself and future generations, so make the most of every chance to learn and grow! 
  • Find your people. Find a favorite quiet spot. Ask for help. Walk into the office. Be present.
  • Don’t stay camped up in your dorm — go meet new people and make friends. You will meet so many different people here that you will learn from and connect with.
  • Be yourself, be present, work hard, and be proactive! Do not be scared to seek resources for yourself. 
  • Experiencing new things and other cultures will open your mind in more ways than you can imagine. 
  • The next few years of your life will require a lot of work and sacrifice, but in the end, it will pay off tremendously. Never lose sight of your goals and the reason why you are here because that is what will keep you going when you don’t think you can any longer. Also, remember to make the most of your time here. These could very well be some of the best years of your life. Do not waste that time because you won’t be able to get it back. Make the memories that you won’t forget, and enjoy it while it lasts. Once a Niner, always a Niner. 
  • Don't blink because it goes by so fast. Cherish all the moments, even the hard ones. One day you will look back and it will all have been worth it. UNCC is such a special place to call home, and it helps you find your people. Never be afraid to put yourself out there because I did, and it changed my life forever. You are strong, capable, and worthy of this education. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! I will miss this season of my life dearly!
  • Choose your friends wisely, don't stick with people who don't match your energy. You want people to have the same major or have an interest you enjoy. Stick with people who would support, love, communicate, and make you happy.
  • Utilize your connections and build new ones. Each and every professor and advisor at Charlotte wants to see you succeed, and would be more than happy to help you along your journey.
  • Make friends because people are most important to your success.
  • Even if you are afraid, it is so worth it to step out of your comfort zone. Take opportunities to do things you believe you cannot achieve to show yourself you can. Approach people first when you want to make friends, reach out to your professors with questions. All of it is worth it, and you will thank yourself for it.
  • Embrace every opportunity, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to seek support. As a First-Generation student, you are paving a new path, and while the journey may feel overwhelming at times, remember that you belong here. Build connections with professors, advisors, and peers who can guide you, and take advantage of campus resources designed to help you succeed. Most importantly, trust in your ability to grow, adapt, and achieve your goals—your hard work and resilience will take you further than you realize!
  • There are resources and people who want to see you succeed. Surround yourself with a support system who uplift you. Remember that every step, no matter how small, is a victory. You belong here.
  • Don't be afraid to ask questions! Sometimes things feel overwhelming, and you may think that you have a dumb question. Don't be afraid to ask! The staff and fellow students are great supporters and are willing to do anything to help you along this crazy journey. Make at least one friend and help keep each other accountable for your work. This will make life so much easier! Good luck, I believe in you!!
  • Never be afraid to reach out for help, whether it is with your assignments, physical health, or mental health. Everyone on campus is rooting for you.
  • Don't be afraid to reach out to people around you. All of the faculty can become mentors, connections, and future networking. The same can come from joining clubs and organizations. These are invaluable parts of attending college, so do not skip it. Get out there and make it all happen! Those that support you are behind you every step of the way, so keep pushing.
  • Get involved and put yourself out there! College is what you make out of it, and you’ll definitely enjoy much more if you take advantage of your surroundings and let yourself meet new people!
  • Choose your friends wisely, don't stick with people who don't match your energy. You want people to have the same major or have an interest you enjoy. Stick with people who would support, love, communicate, and make you happy.
  • Utilize your connections and build new ones. Each and every professor and advisor at Charlotte wants to see you succeed, and would be more than happy to help you along your journey.
  • Network! Network! Network! Network! Make friends because people are most important to your success.
  • Say yes to opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Whether it's internships, networking events, or leadership roles, these experiences help you grow and open doors you never imagined.
  • My advice is to treasure the experiences and connections you make on and off campus.
  • Prioritize making genuine connections with both classmates and faculty; they will help you in the long run. 

ADVICE FOR FIRST-GEN NINERS FROM FIRST-GEN Faculty & Staff

  • Take advantage of the wealth of resources, events, and programming available to you! We are here to help you be successful!
  • Find multiple mentors. Choose individuals who you look up to and can give you support and guidance through your career journey.
  • You get to, you don't have to!
  • Even when no one can relate to what you are going through in college, continuing to press forward.
  • Ask for help when you need it; there are so many people who want to see you succeed! Embrace your journey and be proud of yourself.
  • Don't limit yourself. Seek out opportunities that you never thought would be possible.
  • Find a community of peers, faculty, and staff. This community can be your sounding board for questions and doubts that you might have as a first-gen student.
  • Don't obsess over grades, you are here to learn! Talk to faculty and TAs if you have questions about the content of the class, or ANYTHING else, even if it is not academics related.
  • Try and find free or low-cost textbooks in places other than the campus bookstore. Find on-campus jobs that will help cover tuition or housing.
  • To grow, you must live outside of your comfort zone. Get comfortable with not being comfortable.
  • Try to extend your comfort zone a little bit each semester by engaging in activities and with faculty. You will be surprised at how big your network will be after four years!
  • Believe in yourself and find at least one other person who will believe in you when you can't.
  • There will be times when you need to give yourself grace for making mistakes because you didn't know better. But once you do know better, strive to do better.
  • You deserve to be here and are qualified to be the greatest architect of your future.
  • You are the author of your story! It does not have to be perfect, but make sure it is worth it.
  • Get involved, network, explore, and soak up all of these moments!
  • My grandfather always said, "You are as good as anybody, but better than none." It's a phrase that has always reminded me that I belong! You belong!
  • Your journey is your journey, comparison is the thief of joy, and being the first doesn't mean you will be last.
  • Never forget where you came from, help others along the way, and always rise above.
  • Become involved in the life of your department and area of study. Networks and opportunities will open up for you when people know you.
  • Explore your campus, finding BOTH academic and non-academic support programs that will enable you to grow as a student, scholar, professional, and person. Get involved in the class and community; ask questions in class; show up for office hours; find study buddies. Just as importantly, take care of your physical and mental well-being. Move, eat well, carve time for rest and recovery.