First-Gen College Students: Rocking the Academic World!

How many of us have been a first? How does it feel? What does it mean to us, our families, our communities?

Embarking on a journey as the first in your family to leave home for college, or to graduate, is a path marked by courage, uncertainty, and sometimes a noticeable lack of role models. While supported by communities that are undoubtedly encouraging, there's often a profound disconnect, as those communities may lack a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced along the way.

I recently had the privilege of speaking to a group of first-generation college students at the University of Maryland at College Park. Almost all were the first in their families to leave home and attend college. Looking at faces that reflected my own journey, I answered questions from students bravely navigating their educational and career paths without a clear roadmap or the comfort of shared experiences from those back home.

Shifting from so-called deficit thinking about "firsts" to asset-based framing of first-generation college students can offer invaluable perspectives and skills:

- A Beginner's Mindset: They approach problems with an open-minded curiosity and freshness that can lead to innovative solutions.

- Enthusiasm: Their genuine eagerness and excitement for learning can rejuvenate teams and inspire projects.

- Grit and Tenacity: Their resilience, forged through facing and overcoming unique challenges, fuels a persistent drive towards their goals.

- Intellectual Agility: Quick to adapt, they apply new knowledge with effectiveness and efficiency.

- Emotional Intelligence: Their unique life experiences cultivate empathy and understanding, qualities that enhance team dynamics and interpersonal relationships.

The primary need of these young pioneers is OPPORTUNITY.

As we look towards hiring interns and recent graduates this summer, consider what these talented individuals can offer your organization. Their distinct experiences and perspectives are not just beneficial but essential for fostering diversity and driving innovation within our organizations.

A special thanks to Sharon Van Wright for the invitation to connect with these remarkable students.

Our career workshops are designed to provide talent with the tools and knowledge to grow professionally, remove obstacles that may impede progress, and ensure successful integration into the workforce.

PHOTO CREDIT: JOSE FONTANO COURTESY OF UNSPLASH