We Are First Generation

Ahmed Wafai

Senior, Finance with a Computing minor;
Program Coordinator, Center for Equity & Inclusion; President, Middle Eastern South Asian Association

““I came to America about nine years ago, and there were many times I wanted to go back home because there was no support for me in here. But I pushed myself hard, not just for me but for my mom who worked hard to get me here. She’s the main reason that I am a leader on campus and in my community”

Anahi Martinez

First-year, Criminal justice

“There may be days where you feel like you can’t do it anymore but just think of why you are doing it in the first place. You might not hear it enough, but your family, friends and community are proud of you and how far you’ve come! Don’t lose hope and always remember ‘Sí Se Puede!’”

Ashley Leon Guerrero

Junior, Psychology

“Embrace being first gen! Seriously. Advocate for yourself and the second any ounce of doubt enters your thoughts, look around and remind yourself that you belong here. Not out of luck, not out  of sympathy, but simply because you deserve it and more.”

Danny Elmoussa

Junior, Marketing with Sports Enterprise Management minor; Marketing assistant, First Generation Initiatives and Career Development & Education

“As a first gen student, it’s not easy to find opportunities to engage as I tend to feel some sort of imposter syndrome and
feel like I don’t belong. I have learned to overcome these obstacles by having the courage to not only ask questions, but to put myself out there regardless of my perceived acceptability. This mindset has taken me places I’d never thought I’d be.”

Davon Woodard

Assistant Professor, School of Urban Studies

PhD, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
MBA & MS, DePaul University
BS, Michigan State University

“Being first gen is being brave in the face of the unknown.  Many of us walk onto campus without family or community knowledge to help us navigate these new spaces. In addition to learning our majors and degrees, we are learning these new systems and structures—it doesn’t always go as planned, but we learn and grow.”

Jessica Calalay

Senior, Social Welfare;
Career Prep Consultant, Career Development & Education

“Completing my education to do something I’m passionate about will show future generations that through adversity comes strength and opportunity. Speak up for yourself and for what you believe in. You are worth it and you will accomplish big things if YOU believe it!”

Komisi Petelo

Senior, Computer Science & Systems;
Peer Success Mentor, Teaching & Learning Center

“Along my journey, barriers such as, financial instability, imposter syndrome and lack of knowledge about resources have made me struggle. I draw on the ‘mana’ of my ancestors and family to advocate for me to be persistent and determined on my journey as a first gen student. Those who helped me tremendously are forever engraved in my heart. I hope to replicate those same actions to strengthen and inspire my community just like my brother."

Sonia Nayemi

Senior, Healthcare Leadership;
Student Assistant, Center for Equity & Inclusion

“To me, being first gen means stepping out of cultural norms and being the first woman in my family to graduate college. I draw upon my identity as a woman of color. I don’t view this as a weakness, but a strength. I always tell myself I am a strong woman, and not to give up."

Toan Nguyen

Senior, Computer Science & Systems;
Student advising mentor, University Academic Advising;
Undergraduate Teaching Assistant, School of Engineering & Technology;
President, Google Developer Student Club UW Tacoma Chapter

“My advice would be my father’s, to embrace the challenges and learn from them. Muster all your courage, charge forward and look straight at your challenge, look around it, look at your community of peers—they are a valuable resource since they understand what you are going through, and some might have walked the exact path and found the exit."

Valomanaia Elizarraraz

Senior, Ethnic, Gender & Labor Studies with a Law & Policy minor;
Senior Pack Advisor, New Student & Family Programs;
Volunteer Coordinator, Center for Service & Leadership;
Co-President, Pacific Islander Student Alliance

“Always keep your loved ones and community in mind throughout your college journey. They will be your ‘why’: Why you decided to get a job, why you decided to become independent, why you decided to get involved on campus, and especially why you decided to become the first one in your family to attend a university."

Victoria Nuon

Quantitative Consultant/Tutor, Teaching & Learning Center
BS, University of Washington Tacoma

“It is an honor to have my three younger sisters look up to me. This has encouraged my desire to uplift everyone around me who has not been able to see an accomplished, successful, or college-educated first-generation Cambodian American woman. Whenever I think about settling for something lesser than I know I can achieve, I remind myself of who I fight for. While I may be the first in my family, I will certainly not be the last."

Autumn Diaz

Program Coodinator
Institute for Innovation & Global Engagement

MA, University of Washington
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

I welcome the obligation to take what I have learned, my experiences and challenges, and share them with those who come after me. I have a deep connection to other First Gen students. Only we can understand the path we have walked on and how different, difficult and beautiful it is when no one has walked it before you.”

Dawn Williams

Assistant Director
Career Development & Education

MA, University of St. Thomas
BA, Bethel University

“I was First Gen before First Gen was a thing. I always felt like there was something I was missing but didn’t know what I didn’t know. I always urge students to get involved outside the academic part of college. Those experiences will help you figure out what you love to do, not just what you love to learn.”

De'Shaun Lee Marshall

Online Orientations Communications Specialist
UW Tacoma New Student & Family Programs

BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“I am a Black man who was raised in poverty surrounded by domestic abuse, drugs and violence. Statistically speaking, I should not even be stepping onto a college campus let alone walking across that stage to receive my degree. I realized my presence here was the answer to many of my ancestors’ prayers. I would end the needless cycle of pain, heartache and abuse. I would forever transform my family’s trajectory.“

Isabella Webb

Senior Academic Advisor
University Academic Advising

M.Ed., University of Washington Tacoma
BS, Methodist University

”As a First Gen student, I am following my cultural and spiritual destiny as an Australian Aboriginal, a student, a scholar and an educator. I am laying pathways for my community and other communities to follow. Our identities are a source of power and strength that ground us and connect us to our ancestors but also show us a path forward.“

Jai'shon Marquis Berry

UW Tacoma Junior
Business Administration, Communication
ASUWT Director of University Affairs

“I wanted to challenge everything I was taught as a child — I’m not smart enough or too poor or that I don’t have the resources to be successful — and prove wrong everyone who has every told me that I couldn’t succeed in college. I want my younger siblings to look up to me as someone who put in the hard work and who set the groundwork for them to succeed.“

Jimmy McCarty

Executive Director, Center for Equity & Inclusion
School of Education Affiliate Faculty

Ph.D., Emory University
MA, Claremont School of Theology
BA, Pepperdine University

”When I was a high school student, I explicitly said I would ’never‘ go to college. However, life circumstances changed for me and I ended up going to college and thriving. My ‘never’ has turned into a life’s work! I learned that you have to be open to new experiences. Make friends across differences. Experiment with new ideas. Ask question!”

Kimberly Garver

UW Tacoma Junior
Business Administration-Marketing

“Being First Gen means being unconventional in your academic journey. I went straight into work after high school and have combined working and some form of school for the better part of 16 years to get where I am today. It’s easy to feel lonely. But know that you are surrounded by people doing it first, just like you. Take one step at a time; you’ll find that you are not alone in your journey.”

Sheila Edwards Lange

UW Tacoma Chancellor

Ph.D. and MPA, University of Washington
B.A., University of California Irvine

“I come from a long line of strong women and men who persisted under worse conditions than I. They fought so that I could have access to education. I remember their sacrifices and it encourages me to keep going. I have an incredible network of mentors and peers who believe that I can succeed. Sometimes they see things in me that I cannot see myself.”

Robin Zape-Tah-Hol-Ah Minthorn

Associate Professor and Ed.D Director
UW Tacoma School of Education

PhD, Oklahoma State University
MEd, MHR, University of Oklahoma
BA, University of Oklahoma

"You may feel like you are alone, but you are not alone. Find your pack. Know that you have the prayers and hopes of your family, ancestors, and community with you as you navigate higher education."

Leilt G. Kubie

UW Tacoma Senior
Healthcare Leadership Business
Analytics Minor

Becoming a first-generation student means you do not take education for granted. What motivates me to this day is to make my parents proud and feel like their hard work has paid off.”

Jane Cornman

Senior Lecturer Emeritus
School of Nursing and Healthcare Leadership

PhD, University of Washington Seattle
MN, Oregon Science and Health University
BSN, Villanova University

I have been a member of the UW nursing faculty for 38 years and just retired at the end of June. I have been so impressed with the many students I have been privileged to teach over my many years. I recently had an epiphany and realized I am a First Gen!”

Fuifui Ah Kuoi

UW Tacoma Junior
Ethnic, Gender & Labor Studies

"In my native language, as a Samoan scholar, I would say Mua’i Augatupulaga, meaning I am the first in my generation to do something that has never been done before. My victories are also my ancestors' victories."

Angel Luis Torres

UW Tacoma Peer Advisor for Veteran Education
MACP Student
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

"Without discipline, success in academia would have been unattainable. It has definitely been ‘the MVP’ in my endeavors and continues to be my guiding spirit when times feel challenging.”

Amanda Figueroa

Senior Director, Student Transitions & Success

MS, University of Washington Seattle
BA, University of Washington Seattle
AA, Green River College

“Challenge yourself to grow and invest time and effort into becoming your own best cheerleader. Magical things can happen when we take risks, learn from mistakes and failures, and believe in ourselves.”

Alison Hendricks

Director of Operations and Administration
Milgard School of Business

MBA, Pacific Lutheran University
BA, Washington State University
AA, Green River College

“I had an internal compass pointing me to something better than what my parents and siblings were expecting of me. If you are experiencing difficulty, it can be hard to know what or who to ask. Stick with it! Ask, ask, ask questions!”

Aiden Helt

UW Tacoma Senior
Business Administration
SAB Identity & Culture Coordinator

“It is true that I am in a never-ending crusade to find balance. However, it is the inspiration I draw from my children that gives me the drive to work so hard. It is important to me for my kids to be involved in my education.”

Abdallah Adan

UW Tacoma Senior
Electrical Engineering

“I try to find as many resources as I can and get my questions answered by looking in every corner. I am motivated by what I have done and what I am doing. You need to be patient about what comes your way.”

José Rios

Associate Professor
School of Education

PhD, University of Wisconsin Madison
MS, University of Wisconsin Madison
BA, Oberlin College

“Being First Gen means honoring the sacrifices of my elders who made my education possible. I persist because of the love of my family and my desire to make them proud. Explore the possibilities! Engage your gifts!”

Tanya Grace Velasquez

Associate Teaching Professor, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences
Faculty Development Associate, Office of Equity & Inclusion

MA, University of Washington Tacoma
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“One of the best things about being a first generation college graduate is discovering all the wonderful ways having a degree will change your life. Daily I’m reminded of how meaningful my education has been to me and my family. I hope students make the most of their time at UW Tacoma and experience the power of a transformative education!”

Chris Beasley

Assistant Professor, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences

PhD, DePaul University
MA, Roosevelt University
BAS, University of Minnesota-Duluth
AAS, Lincoln Trail College

“My biggest challenge has been to recognize the greatness within me and the potential to shape the world around me."

“Keep stretching your imagination about what is possible."

“Sometimes what seems like a failure today can be what defines your success tomorrow.”

Zvon Casanova

UW Tacoma Center for Student Involvement Program Assistant
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“It can feel like you’re jumping off a cliff and learning how to fly on the way down. But life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. Commit to something you WANT to do, carve your own path and take ownership of your journey.”

Gurchetan Singh

Software Engineer
BS, University of Washington Tacoma

“If a voice whispers in your ear that ‘thou shalt not fail,’ do not fear failure and temporary setbacks. Don’t hesitate to ask what you don’t know! Be humble, yet fearless, patient yet hustling. Stay persistent in your efforts and at the same time be adaptive.”

Maria Reyes

Pierce College to UW Tacoma Academic Advisor
MSW, University of Washington Tacoma
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“I kept questioning myself and feeling I was not good enough. What kept me going was my family. I knew there were others looking up to me.

“Don’t give up! Be the first!”

Levon Williams

UW Tacoma Equity & Inclusion Student Retention & Community Development Specialist
BA, Fordham University

“Being First Gen means you are on a path to changing your family trajectory. I was forced to think differently. Being First Gen built dedication, grit, flexibility and commitment. Remember that you are changing the landscape of your future.”

Bernard Anderson

UW Tacoma Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Life
PhD, Mercer University
MS, Capella University
BS, University of New Orleans

“Being First Gen means developing unwavering resilience and persistence while navigating the demanding journey that is the college experience. It is powerful and affirming to come to the realization that asking for help is a sign of strength and maturity.”

Deborah Petri

Senior, Business Administration
Global Honors

“I’m establishing a new path for those who see me as a role model. Often, the only thing that keeps me going is the encouragement of my friends, family and boss. Professors and advisors often know about resources that aren’t widely advertised. Talk to them!”

Mikel Pircey

Senior, Environmental Sustainability
Giving Garden Coordinator

“The journey as a First Gen has had an enormous impact on me. I draw support from all those around me: family, friends, and the UW Tacoma community. Being First Gen means so much because it’s giving me opportunities I never would have had.”

Wendy Bracamontes

Junior, Social Welfare

“You are capable of so many things. Even though life has thrown you curveballs, you still made it. Through your hard work, you have achieved something amazing: going to college.

“When your motivation wavers, just remember: keep pushing on!”

Cindy Thao

Senior, Healthcare Leadership

“Being First Gen means setting a vision and achieving it. I used to see culture, family and money as my challenges. Now I know that the only challenge I faced was myself. You have to do it when you’re ready, go at your own pace, and NEVER TAKE NO for an answer.”

Victoria Hill

UW Tacoma Director, Student Financial Aid & Scholarships
MAIS, University of Washington Tacoma
BA, Sociology The Evergreen State College
AA Human Services, Tacoma Community College

“I have experienced a number of challenges in my life. I am conscious of my own weaknesses, and am grateful that I have found the ability to ask for help. Keep a positive outlook and understand that failure is an integral part of success and always a learning opportunity.”

Roseann Martinez

UW Tacoma Assistant Director of Student Advocacy
MSW, University of Washington Seattle
BA, Sociology Westmont College
AA Human Services, Tacoma Community College

“I get strength from my mentors and peers that have paved the way for me. I stand on shoulders that have borne the brunt of discrimination and prejudice. I rely on faith and hope to get me through the hard times. I feel supported by the young people that are following. Their strength and determination is unmatched, is supportive, and keeps me going.”

Nedralani Foisaga Mailo

UW Tacoma Office of Equity & Inclusion
Program Support Supervisor
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“There aren’t a lot of Pacific Islanders in higher education. My succeeding sets the tone so that others like me can do the same. I am living proof you do not have to leave your culture at the door. Embrace the challenges you’ve faced and be proud of your culture that has shaped you into the person who you are today.”

Maria Isabel Crisostomo Salmeron

Junior, Politics, Philosophy & Economics
ASUWT Senator
First Gen Fellows Operations Assistant

“Being the first in my family to attend college and pursue higher education as a womxn of color, indigenous and multilingual in an environment I am not familiar with means not being afraid and being resilient. My advice to others: Be one of a kind, original, individual, unforgettable, memorable, indelible, incredible!”

Kirsten Larican Garcia

Senior, Healthcare Leadership

“I dedicate my opportunity to my parents, grandparents and their sacrifices. My grandparents worked long hours in poor conditions to provide for our family after emigrating from the Philippines. It’s from these experiences that I find empowerment and resilience in overcoming adversity.”

Kimi Mattos

Senior, American Studies

“I have learned a lot of things the hard way: by messing up. Just getting into college is a huge task. Congratulations! My advice: Praise yourself for every victory from here on out. Take care of yourself. Make friends and ask for help, because you DO belong here.”

Karl Nathan Tolentino

Senior, Arts, Media & Culture
Museum Studies Minor
Nonprofit Studies Minor

“I am proud to be a first-generation student and represent my Filipino culture in a space where I can be myself, use art as my outlet and share my creativity. I would say to other first-generation students, be your authentic self, and do not let anyone tell you that you are not worthy of an education.”

Joana Cervera

Junior, Healthcare Leadership
Applied Computing Minor

“Being first gen feels like we are carrying the weight of our families on our shoulders. I didn’t know where to start or who to go to for help, but I use failure as motivation to break down barriers. My baby nephews are my motivation.”

James Christian Flores Da

Junior, Social Welfare
ASUWT Senator
First Gen Fellows Leadership Development Coordinator

“Being First Gen means persevering when I feel defeated. It means to achieve excellence in hopes that I can inspire my younger siblings to achieve great heights. My advice: do more than just going to class. Your outside experiences will be a source of happiness when your classes become overwhelming.”

Hanan A. Gumale

Junior, Politics, Philosophy & Economics

“I get to pave the way for my siblings and future children. As the oldest child, I know I’m setting the bar. My advice to others: Set up goals every quarter. Reflect on what you did well and what you need to improve on.”

Fatima Al-Kinani

Senior, Social Welfare

“Being First Gen means breaking through and clearing the road for others. My biggest challenge is myself and thinking I am not good enough. My advice to others: follow no trends.”

Christie Peralta

Senior, Management
ASUWT Director of Internal Affairs

“I have really bad Imposter Syndrome! I hadn’t even realized I identified as First Gen until this past year. My advice is to explore outside your comfort zone and get involved! College is a great time to explore new interest. #beboundless”

Armen Papyan

Junior, Politics, Philosophy & Economics
Business Administration minor
Human Rights minor
ASUWT Director of Legislative Affairs

“From a young age, I was reminded of the value of pursuing higher education. Everything can be taken away, but your education will remain with you. At UW Tacoma, you will be surrounded by a supportive community of first generation students with experiences very similar to your own.”

Araceli Tovar Carillo

Junior, Social Welfare

“Being First Gen means you having to go through your own path not knowing what you are walking into. REACH out and SPEAK up to get the support and resources you need to make your path successful. Looking back the path you created will make you feel so powerful to be doing it on your own. Get educated and learn from others and they might also learn from you.”

Ara Papyan

Junior, Management
Economics minor

“First Gen means to me becoming a stronger person. Going to college is not only about getting a degree, it is about making connections and friends. It is about finding your FAM!”

Apple Ortiz

Senior, Law & Policy

“Being First Gen means doing what others have not done before, and setting an example for those after. Often one feels like giving up, but persistence is key. If it were easy, everyone would do it. Believe, and you will achieve.”

Diana Algomeda-Villada

Sophomore, pre-major, Global Honors
Peer Advisor

“My advice for other first-gen students: Don't give up. Keep trying because the hard work is worth it. College is giving me the opportunity to do things I never would have imagined. I know I can achieve more than I thought, and I know that I'm honoring my parents and the sacrifices they made.”

Yuliana Ambriz

Senior, Ethnic, Gender & Labor Studies
Student Activities Board Chair

“Never give up on the idea of being a college graduate, because you are investing in yourself and your future, and that, in itself, is worth everything.”

Soky Chhuoy

Program Assistant
Office of Undergraduate Education

BA, UW Tacoma

"Being a first generation, I had my challenges ... I had to learn everything on my own. My advice—be involved and make sure to do an internship while you're in school!"

Lorraine Dinnel

Associate Director
Academic Advising Center

BA, UW Tacoma
MS, Kansas State University
EdD candidate, Northeastern University

"Higher education is a life-changing experience and you made it here! You belong here—believe in yourself!"

Douglas Epps

Alumni

PhD student, University of California, Berkeley
MSW, University of Washington Tacoma
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“To me, first generation means making a choice to take control of your life and your future, committing yourself to the unknown to strive for a dream. Stepping into the unknown is scary, but if you vigilantly fight that persistent self-doubt, humbly ask for more information when needed and simply just keep pushing forward, the sky's the limit.”

Katherine Felts

Junior
Ethnic, Gender & Labor Studies

“It's natural to want to focus on your success and your pride, but the burden of being first gen is the necessity of building from the ground up. Making friends who have the same struggles is almost always helpful, but without the friends who are different, I would never have been prepared for this journey.”

Nataley Guajardo

Senior, Law & Policy
F1G Leadership Development Coordinator

"Believe in yourself. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone because it is vital that you do.

"Do things even if they seem silly, because you will grow and the growth of others depends on you. You owe it to others, not just yourself, but to those who are first generation students."

Hawo Guyo

Sophomore, Pre-Major
Marketing & Media Coordinator, Somali Student Association

“A piece of advice: make sure you take care of your mental health while in college. It is easy to become inundated with coursework, but taking a breather makes it easier to process the material that you are learning in class. And have someone to talk to — someone who understands first-generation pressures, or even just someone who gives you the space to vent.”

Bob Hardie

Manager
Fiscal Support Services

MEd, University of Washington Tacoma
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“My road to being a college graduate is certainly not the most traditional, nor did I take the easiest route. However, I am proud of my accomplishments, because, in the end, it was the best journey of my life.”

Nhan Hoang

Senior, Business Administration/Marketing
ASUWT Senator
Husky 100

“I got involved to be a mentor, leader and resource for first-generation and underrepresented students. I wanted to make sure no one would have to go through what I went through ... that I'm as good as anyone else.

“I am a role model for my little brother as well as fellow first-generation students. I want them to know that education and resources are options for everyone.”

Stephon Harris

Associate Director
New Student & Family Programs

BA, St. Martin's University

"For a long time, I doubted my skills and was not confident in my abilities. That moment you realize you belong is the moment all possibilities are open to you."

Christopher Johnston

Senior, Law & Policy
Transfer Peer Advisor

"Even though my family doesn't share the reality and struggles that come with college life, I wouldn't have been able to do it without them."

Angela Jones

Fiscal Specialist II
Finance & Administration

MEd candidate, University of Washington Tacoma
BA, University of Washington Tacoma

“It is not the challenge or obstacle that makes the difference in your life, it is how you handle those challenges that makes the greatest impact and leaves a lasting impression on the individual you are striving to become.”

April Lai

Sophomore, Business Administration
SAB Entertainment Coordinator

“I was pleasantly surprised to meet others who are also first generation. UW Tacoma has welcomed me with open arms and I am immensely grateful to have the support of professors, faculty and friends in my efforts to be a steward for student success.”

Danica Sterud Miller

Associate Professor
American Indian Studies

BA, Western Washington University
MA, MPhil, Fordham University
PhD, Fordham University

"The best advice I can give is to talk with your professors. We are really interested in our student community and we want to do everything we can to help you succeed"

Gabriela Raisl

Senior, Psychology

“As first-generation students, we represent what can be attained when you decide to write your own story. There are an infinite number of paths that can be taken to reach a goal and to accomplish your dreams. We are paving the road for those who come after us, and we're leaving them with the tools they need to build their own roads to success.”

David Reyes

Assistant Professor
Nursing & Healthcare Leadership

BSN, Seattle University
MN, MPH, University of Washington
DNP, University of Washington

"It is important to find balance. Find time to develop and maintain relationships with the people that are important to you. At the same time, find the opportunity to reflect on your achievements, and reach out to others who can support you when you feel stress"

Kayesee Schermerhorn

Senior, Law & Policy
Student Activities Board
Issues & Controversies Event Coordinator
Husky 100

“Be proud of your accomplishment. You're not alone and there are many other students here that are in your situation. You may be the first in your family to attend college, but because of your hard work, you won't be the last.”

Kendy Trinh

Junior, Ethnic, Gender & Labor Studies

“When you feel like you are alone, you're not, because there are many other first-generation students that are here for you. When you doubt how good you are, reflect on how far you have come, how much you have achieved. Do not compare yourself to others — everyone has their own pace.”

Marcos Vieyra

Freshman, Law & Policy

“First-generation students carry with them boundless experience and passion. Many come from diverse backgrounds and each has a unique story to tell. There is strength in being first-generation.”