Christina Meijer

“I am a first generation college student, born and raised in the river valley. I have always had a passion for learning, but growing up with parents that worked tirelessly to make ends meet meant I would have to fund college myself. My parents always encouraged me and wanted more for me than the opportunities they had.

My education was always very important to me, and I knew I wanted to be the first to attend college in my family. The problem was I had no idea how to make that happen.

It was with the help of my high school counselor that I learned about FAFSA and some scholarship opportunities. I soon applied and was approved meaning I had a way to college!

I was so excited and couldn’t wait to see what college would hold for me. In 2010, I enrolled at UAFS and began my journey to a higher education. Life didn’t happen as I expected with the death of my older brother, a divorce, and a few degree changes. My journey got delayed, and I started feeling defeated.

As determined as I am, I found my way back to UAFS a couple of times. Each time, I was greeted with open arms by those that wanted to see me succeed as much as I did. The financial aid advisors helped me find funding, the advisors helped me with a degree plan, and I showed up and put in the hard work.

It is with the help of so many faculty members, my family and my husband that I stand where I am today. I graduated in May 2020 with a degree in media communications and a minor in Spanish and hope to become a photo journalist or a social media specialist.

I’m very thankful for all the sacrifices that my parents made so I could be here today. I’m grateful to everyone at UAFS that I have met that has helped mold me into a better student, employee, intern, friend and person.”

I am Christina Meijer, and I am #First2Go.