Sydney Gallup

Something so interesting is that I didn't realize until two years ago that I was a First-Generation college student, or what that meant for me. I wish I had known the significance of growing up because it is important to understand, reflect on, and find support for. I wish I had known in the times I felt weak, ignorant, and lost that part of those feelings came from being the first in my family to go to college (and that I wasn't really weak). My family was always supportive of me and they encouraged my education- my Dad went to trade school and wanted for his children to go to college because he didn't get to. That though, helped me see the importance of trades and how college isn't necessarily for everyone anyway. But for me, I was supported in going but was sort of on my own in preparing for a college education. 

How did I come to find I was a First-Generation college student? I worked with TRIO students- a program I wish I had found growing up. It provides community, a sense of belonging, support, resources, and opportunities. I'm proud of where I am today, but I know that understanding that being the first in my family to go to college and then go on to get a Master's is huge; it's important, it can be a struggle, it's scary, it's rewarding, it's lonely, you feel misunderstood, you feel accomplished. You don't have to go through all of that alone- our community is strong, we've overcome hurdles not everyone has to, and I think it makes us pretty cool too.