Brenda Rosales

“My older sister has always been a role model to me and my younger sisters," said Brenda Rosales, a 2018 UAFS graduate. "Our parents always pushed us to put school first and never give up."

Brenda had hopes of becoming a doctor when she started college. “With that in mind, I initially signed a biology degree plan, but after taking a look at the classes, I decided chemistry with a concentration in biochemistry was a better fit for me.” To make school even more interesting, Brenda also decided to minor in statistics.

After her freshman year, Brenda felt the need to stand on her own two feet and take control of her finances. She did so by applying to work at the UAFS Bookstore. She said she is so thankful for the opportunity to work at the bookstore on campus because it pushed her out of her comfort zone and opened many new exciting opportunities for her.

Brenda also shared that there were many teachers who invested their time in her. She talked about Dr. Kannan, who encouraged her to sign up for Maymester, an opportunity to study abroad for credit during the month of May. She is also thankful for Dr. Belcher, her professor of physics, for always keeping her on track with her education and cheering her on. Another professor, Dr. Jamison, was someone who made it apparent that she was there to see Brenda succeed. She shared with Brenda her experiences of being part of a minority and a first-generation student.

The best advice Brenda would give to another first-generation student would be to be yourself. “Throughout college you find a different you. Talk to your professors and take advantage of their help and office hours they offer.”

Spend even a brief moment with Brenda and you will immediately sense her deep dedication to her education.

This is Brenda Rosales, and she is #First2Go.