Share Your Story!
We want to hear from you! Every student has different college experiences, especially those who are the first in their family to attend college. We want to know what obstacles you had to overcome, what resources were particularly helpful, and more.
Stories shared with #first2go...
As we get new #first2go stories, we will share them here.
Gina Southchay, 2019
Chemistry
The thought of college was scary, but my parents ensured me that I could do it and they wanted me to have a successful future. I had no idea what I was doing, but with research and guidance from my high school counselor, I slowly but surely figured it out. I was pretty successful in high school: All A's, high honors, and I received many scholarships for college, but once I was in college, I did not know how to study or how to manage my time. My parents pushed and supported me throughout my whole academic journey. I also wanted to set an example for my brother and I want him to know that if I could do it, he can do it, too. My fiancé also played a big part in my academic journey. He was always there to encourage me when I was at rock bottom. I don't know where I would be if I didn't have my parents, my brother, or my fiancé.
Stephanie Wilson, expected graduation December 2020 Organizational Leadership
My parents never attended college and I feel very lucky to be completing my college adventure this fall with my BSOL. I am considering pursuing my Master's degree in the near future as well. It may have taken years to achieve this goal and I have worked hard to get to this point, but my hope is that I am an inspiration to others who may think that college is not an option for them if they are older in age. Waiting to see what opportunities will open up for me now.
Sydney Seegers, Junior
Media Communication
Having to grow up at a young age and start taking care of myself at 16, working and balancing was hard. I work full time and go to school full time, and my parents never attended college, other than my mom attended technical school. I grew up in middle class family and have always paid my own way, due to some conflict with my family growing up, but I worked hard and put my blood, sweat, and tears into my academics. Now I’m halfway through my college career on full scholarship.
Lynne Lukas, Academic Success Coach
UAFS Academic Success Center
Being a first generation college graduate has changed the way I interact in the world. I started college in 1980 and attended the UA in Fayetteville, AR for three years before having my first child. The dream of earning a college degree never died. When I started working full-time, I realized that to earn a decent living I had to get a bachelor's degree. I not only reached my goal; I earned a M.Ed. as well. Working for the UA while attending college made going to school affordable. I am blessed to have no college debt and two degrees. The only reason that I succeeded is that I didn't give up on my dream.
Tom Wing, Director-Assistant Professor
I worked full time while going to school my first two years at Westark (UAFS) then transferred to UA Fayetteville to finish. It took 5 years instead of 4 but I got two bachelor degrees because I double majored. I have taught or worked in a field related to my major my entire career. I love my job and don't feel like I work. Find what thrills you, major in it, then work will be play!
Caleb Cash-Tobey, Music Major
Finding a person on campus to help me navigate the collegiate experience was difficult, but luckily my mom had no problem introducing me to someone during Orientation who became my person (Mrs. Shirley). When I became a student affairs professional, I was determined to be that person for every student who came to my previous institution. Feel free to reach out to me about it. I would love to share my Mrs. Shirley story.
Samantha Contreras,
Communication Assistant
As a first-generation Mexican-American student, I graduated from the City of New York-CSI. With little guidance, I completed my degree on my own and began my career as a writer at UAFS. I hope to help any first-generation UAFS student complete their degree with ease and to know they're not alone!