They still want to be a part of your life and are so proud of you. Be grateful and share stories with them about your new adventures. Those very people who believed in you may not have earned a degree themselves and so it may be hard for them to relate to your new life and experiences. Rather than feeling any shame or embarrassment, realize that you had wonderful mentors – whether family or friends- who believed in you and helped to launch you on this path. Be proud of the fact that you are first-generation.

at Carleton College in 1984 Advice for first-generation students at Carletonġ. If you have people to support you, you’re much more likely to weather the tough times.”ī.A. Succeeding at college is not easy–it’s intellectually challenging, but even more, it’s emotionally challenging. The more people get to know you (and vice versa), the richer your experience becomes, and the more back-up you have if you run into problems. Also, build relationships with the students and staff you encounter. Carleton profs want to talk to you, so go see them. Every time you visit a professor, the easier it gets, and the more you both benefit from the relationship. Go to your professors’ office hours and ask questions (including questions from the course, but also things like “what are you excited about in your research?” or “how did you end up at Carleton?” or “how would you summarize the point of this course?”). “Only one piece of advice: build relationships.

in Math at the University of Minnesota Advice for first-generation students at Carleton

All in My Head by Paula Kamen