First-Generation Celebration Week

I hope you find the label of “first gen” motivating and not limiting. Higher education can open a whole set of new doors for you, as it did for me! - Kelly Ahuna, Director of the Office of Academic Integrity

Be open about your circumstances and obstacles with peers and advisors: many people are willing to help. Persevere! A college degree opens many doors and enables you to direct your future - Jennifer Chazen, Director of Student Services, The Graduate School

When I was an undergraduate, I did not think about the fact that I was the first in my family to go to college. However, I was constantly aware that other students seemed to know more than I did about how college worked and what it took to succeed. Case in point, I spent two years in Engineering and I had no idea what engineers did. I did not know any engineers and I did not have anyone that could explain it to me. All I knew was that they made higher salaries when they graduated college and that sounded good to me. I struggled through the coursework for two years before I switched majors, but later I realized why it had been such a challenge – the courses I took were graded on a curve and I started a step behind most students because I had only completed pre-calculus in high school while most of the students in my classes had taken AP Calculus. I did not know what a grading curve was and I never considered that I left high school behind other students. - Nathan Daun-Barnett, PhD, Department Chair & Associate Professor, Educational Leadership and Policy

My parents may not have had Bachelor’s degrees, but they knew the value of an education. My mother was expertly educated in a one-room school house, and my father still renders complicated construction drawings at the age of 89. It was always assumed that my siblings and I would receive a college degree. All four of us did, and three of us went on to graduate degrees. I’m blessed that I had a stable, intelligent, and caring foundation to support me while I achieved my education. I marvel at students who have none of this and still succeed. - Loretta Frankovitch, Ph.D., Assistant Director, Academic Integrity

Do what you can, with what you have, where you are! Being a first generation student is not easy but let this quote remind you to believe in yourself and never forget your end goal. - Bethany Thompson, Enrollment Services Advisor, Office of Undergraduate Admissions

There were many obstacles and challenges to overcome being a first generation college student. Through perseverance, hard work, and dedication, I was able to obtain an A.A, B.S, and M.S degree, which has guided me on my professional career journey here at the University at Buffalo. - Stephen Hart, Facilities and Operations Coordinator for Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keep reminding yourself that you belong here and you CAN do this! - Krista Hanypsiak, Assistant Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education

My mom got her high school diploma, but my dad only went as far as 8th grade. Nevertheless, they made it very clear throughout my childhood that I was going to college – No ifs, ands, or buts! I realize now, so many years later, that I have spent a career trying to pass along to others the gift that my parents gave me. - Stephen Jacobson, Distinguished UB Professor in ELP

Just when you’re about to give up, take a breath and remember you belong and you are good enough. - Vivian Jimenez, Interim Director, Tutoring and Academic Support Services

Being the first in my family to attend college was both a major accomplishment and an example for my siblings to follow. I did not have the knowledge or resources to navigate all of the unknowns but took advantage of getting involved from the day I arrived on campus and that made all the difference. - Darcy Johnson, Associate Director- Housing Services, Campus Living

When you’re first gen, it feels like you need a secret decoder ring to navigate the language and bureaucracy of college. And sometimes you do, but it’s no secret. Every person at the university can help you crack the code or can point you in the right direction. You don’t need to do it alone, you just need to ask. - Daniel Kaczmarek, Director of Assessment and Research, Student Life

I often think back on how it felt to be thome first person in my immediate family to go to college. Although at the time I really wished my parents had been able to offer advice, later on I felt proud that I had navigated identifying, applying to and graduating from both my undergraduate and graduate programs on my own. It took a lot of hard work and se angst, but I did it. Today, I sometimes have the chance to talk to teens who are in the same situation, and I’m happy to give guidance, which is more informed now that I work at UB. - Grace Lazzara, Director, Marketing, Communications and Outreach, School of Public Health and Health Professions

It is a symbol of strength and reminder of the sacrifices and support my family made to get to where I am today. - Sherene Milizia, Registrar Office of Student and Academic Affairs, Office of Medical Education

I’m a first generation college graduate – class of 1989, BA in Spanish (Cum Laude). I spent a year in Mexico as a study abroad student then got a job at UB in 1986 as an undergrad student assistant then became a professional in 1989. Being a first generation graduate meant the world to me and my family. - Lisa Monpere-Cruz, Administrative Assistant, English Language Institute

Watch. Listen. Learn. You have an obligation to clear the path for those who will follow you. - Darren Portis, CAS Advising

I’m not only a first-generation college graduate in my nuclear family, but am a first generation PhD in most of my extended family as well. My education path has been eased by taking advantage of opportunities typical to first-generations students, ranging from receiving a Tobacco Region Scholarship when attending community college in rural Virginia or being granted a Schomberg Fellowship while obtaining my PhD here at SUNY Buffalo. - Tim Pruitt Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychology

The Honorable Shirley Chisolm said, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” I apply that to my research on education policy and all of my academic labor. Together, let’s take—or bring—a seat to transform and lift while we rise for educational opportunity, justice, and human dignity for all. I belong here and so do you! - Sarah Robert, Associate Professor and Director of UB’s Social Studies Education Programs

Being a first generation student means learning to be comfortable in a world different from the world you were raised in without family to guide you through it.- Betsy Rodriguez, Director of the Educational Opportunity Program

Although challenges were faced, successfully persisting through college was an honor for my entire family. I'm grateful to relate to, and connect with, other first-gen students, where we all learn from one another and lift each other up. - Dr. Stephen Santa-Ramirez, Assistant Professor of Higher Education

From a young age, my Dad taught me that education was my way out. If I could learn and had a little grit, I could do anything. I will never forget the moment, I walked across the stage for my master’s degree and saw my Dad waving proudly as I accomplished something no one in my family had before. - Jenna Hubbard, Coordinator of Assessment and Marketing, Career Design Center

Being the first in my family to attend college after witnessing my mother struggling and sacrificing for our family – this gave me the will and determination to attend college and succeed. I not only received my bachelor’s degree, but went on to complete my PhD. - Cheryl Taplin, Senior Associate Vice Provost, Student Success and Academic Support

To me, being first gen means navigating spaces that are often new, or not understanding some of the norms of college that others understand. I still have trouble working through imposter syndrome that I have. I am thankful that I can work at UB in a role that lets me help other first generation students unpack components of the hidden curriculum as part of the graduate admissions process. - Ryan Taughrin, Assistant Dean for Enrollment Management, Graduate School of Education

I cannot thank my parents enough for understanding the value of a college education. They made it their priority to “earn a degree” be my priority. With that I feel confident in any situation, as knowledge is the key to understanding others…Thanks Mom and Dad. - Timothy Tryjankowski ,Chair - Professional Staff Senate (Office of Shared Governance)

Relationships and support of all kinds helped me to make my way and those pieces are at the core of my commitment to students now. The perspectives and insights of FirstGen students have the potential to positively transform our educational spaces and bring the dream of more equitable education to fruition. - Amanda Winklesas, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Learning and Instruction; Assistant Dean for Outreach and Community Engagement

As a first generation graduate I view colleges as lanterns illuminating pathways for better outcomes for my future family. Now as a higher education professional I must pay it forward. - Allen Williams, Program Coordinator, Intercultural and Diversity Center

My parents are immigrants and came to America as teenagers. They didn’t have the opportunity to go to college. I was the first one in my family to get a college degree and then continue on to receive a masters. It was hard to navigate the college system alone with no one in my family knowing anything about the admissions process, how to study and what it takes to be successful in college. - Linda Zilgme, Assistant Director, Tutoring & Academic Support Services

Self-care is the fuel you need to feed your passions, interests and educational goals. It is essential that you have emotional well-being, rest and good nutrition to be successful. - Sharon Mitchell, Senior Director, Student Wellness

Believe. You can and you will persevere and succeed. You are not alone and we are here to support you. Never give up. - Larissa Garcia Kowalczyk, Senior Associate Director, Campus Living

Imposter syndrome is a real experience that creates unrealistic expectations. You are here because you are ready to be. This is your space, don’t be afraid to ask questions about it. - Heather Hagenbuch, Assistant Director, McNair Scholars Program

Dream bigger, YOU can do it! Believe in yourself and step out of the comfort zone. - Cynthia Yu, Assistant Director, International Enrollment Management

Learn about and seek out the resources you're entitled to. Whether it is financial aid, accessibility resources, or a professor's office hours, reach out to those who can support your education. - Ken DeMarree, Associate Professor, Psychology

You should be so proud of yourself and your accomplishments! There are so many resources and people to help should you ever need it! Please don't be afraid to ask, opportunity is behind every door! - Jessica Farley, Lead Academic Advisor, Undergraduate Programs, School of Management

Be proud of your story and not afraid to share it – you’ll be surprised at the magic that happens sometimes when you connect with other first gen students. And remember all the people who help(ed) you along the way so you can pay that kindness forward when you succeed. - Jenifer Barclay, Faculty

Being First Generation is all about stepping outside your comfort zone. You deserve to be here! College is about hard work, so remember to ask for help when you need it. You can do this! - Lauren Galgovich, Student Success Staff Assistant, Office of Student Success & Academic Support

Imposter syndrome is real. I was too quiet, too unsure I had something to say, and afraid to ask questions. I’d act more confident if I had it to do over. - Brian Ibsen, Senior Director, Corporate and Foundation Relations, University Advancement

Your experiences as a F-Gen student are valuable, and it's important to speak up and share your perspective. Don't underestimate yourself or the positive impact you may have on those around you. - Amanda Ramia, Curriculum and Instructional Designer, Medical Education and Educational Research Institute

1. Prioritize the importance of making connections and building relationships. 2. Ask for help. People in your network want to help-ask them! 3. Believe in yourself. You are ENOUGH! -Arlene Kaukus, Director, Career Design Center

Knowledge is power and is something that no one can take away from you. It is up to you to become as powerful as you can be. - Angela, Slisz, Business Analyst, Student Life

Being first-generation, one thing my father always told me is that “there is no such word as can’t”. That phrase has been my mantra not only throughout my college career, but also my entire life. - Tyler Richards, Coordinator of First-Generation Programs

As a first-generation college student, you are not expected to know as much about the college experience as your peers, and that’s OK. Just because you enter college not knowing as much about the process, doesn’t mean that you won’t excel as a college student. Give your parents and family room and space to grow alongside you. The journey will be worth it, and so beautiful. - Danielle Johnson, Director of Social Justice Initiatives, CPMC and Daniel Acker Scholars Program