First-Generation Programs
First-Gen Lumberjack
A saying we say back in my hometown is, ¡Si Se Puede! (Yes You Can!) And indeed, you can!
Coming from a low-income household and immigrant parents, I never imagined my life to be where it is currently at. Nonetheless, I could not be more thankful. I remember moving from Mexico to the United States and starting elementary school and not speaking one word in English and experiencing culture clash. That did not stop my growth, I learned English and was constantly being recognized for my academic performance – right away I knew I wanted to go to college, but I was afraid my parents would not be able to afford it. As I started middle school and high school, I was heavily supported by my teachers, clubs and organizations I became a part of that helped me reach my goals. I began learning that being First-Generation was nothing to be ashamed of, but proud of. There is infinite help out there for First-Gen students that vary from scholarships, mentorship programs and organizations and I have to say being part of all of these has made me believe in myself, it has given me confidence and made me work harder than ever. It is because of opportunities like this that I continue to strive forward and be goal driven because I know I am being supported by everyone.
My first time being at NAU was during the summer of 2018 when I did the S.T.A.R. Program which was such a valuable experience and prepared me for my first day of college in August. Throughout my time here at NAU, I have been part of First Scholars which has been a huge foundation on me to having a good transition to college, I have been supported by mentors and staff as well as my cohort. I have been inspired by all the support I got in middle school and high school which pushed me to become a College Advisor as a College Sophomore. I was able to work with high school students by introducing them to all the opportunities there is to achieve a post- secondary education. I think my favorite part while being a College Advisor was that I was able to work with first generation students and to know that I was in their shoes a few years ago was really inspiring because it made me realize anything is possible. While being here at NAU, I was also able to be part of Peer Jacks Mentoring Program for a certain time which expanded my leadership experience, and I was able to share helpful resources to first year students.
As a current Junior, I am now secretary for Tri-Alpha Honor Society. Tri-Alpha is an all-first-generation society, where all first-generation alumni, staff graduate, and college students can be part of! I look at everything I have achieved, and I am filled with gratitude to know that I am where I am because of how supportive the Office of First-Generation at NAU has been to me and everyone else! A saying we say back in my hometown is, ¡Si Se Puede! (Yes You Can!) And indeed, you can!
