First-Generation College Stories

Being the first in my family to attend college and graduate with a degree was a huge accomplishment for me and my family. I am so grateful for all the opportunities the UW offered me as a student. I loved my experience so much that I returned to obtain my master’s degree at the UW. Due to my education, I have obtained social mobility and continue to grow as a young professional.

As a first generation college student, attending college can be scary but just know there are so many other students feeling the same way. Identifying as first-gen is a beautiful asset both academically and professionally. Don’t ever doubt what you can do just because you are first-gen. There is a community of us rooting for you!
 

“Don’t ever doubt what you can do… There is a community of us rooting for you!” —Julie, ’16, ’18

I was born and raised in Sola de Vega, Oaxaca, Mexico until I was 10 years old. I completed my K-12 education in Everett, Washington. I come from an immigrant family where higher education was not part of the conversation, so going to college was not something I aspired to.

As an undocumented student with limited financial resources and college literacy, I did not contemplate college as a possibility until my senior year, thanks to incredible mentors. By the time I initiated the process of applying for scholarships, I had missed most admission deadlines for four-year universities, except for UW Bothell, where I had been accepted.

I opted for community college first and received an associate degree from Everett Community College before transferring to the UW. It was the right decision for me as it was not only significantly more affordable, but it gave me time to prepare myself academically and have a better idea of where I wanted to go next.

I’d describe my experience as transformative because everything was completely new to me — from living in a big city like Seattle, to navigating new spaces that had never been available to me, to dealing with the adversities but also the opportunities of being a college student at an institution like the University of Washington. I think that my experience as a first-gen really gave me an awareness of and empathy for the world around me that is reflected across all areas of my work. Since my college days, the concepts of social justice, cultural identity, diversity, and inclusion became fundamental aspects of how I approach my personal and professional life — from the stories I want/need to share, the communities I want to make an impact on, to voicing my ideas and concerns on practices that will improve the experiences and outcomes for all students, staff and faculty.

Being a first-generation college graduate means I get to be part of a group that is changing history. Being a first-generation college graduate is not solely about attaining a higher education degree and pursuing our own professional goals, it impacts many other aspects of our lives from access to different economic and network opportunities, to increased civic engagement, to fundamentally changing our outlook in life. Which translates to having the tools and possibilities to build different (hopefully healthier and more sustainable) kinds of relationships with our families, our finances, and our civic duties that can transcend generations.

If you feel uncomfortable, you’re doing something right. We evolve as much as we allow ourselves to, so I encourage first-generation students to situate yourself in new spaces that stretch your own understanding of yourself and allow for you to find out more of who you are and what you’re capable of. And if you make others uncomfortable, even better because then you’re having the world grow with you. It’s good to have a home base, a safe space where you can return to ground yourself — perhaps a place or a person that will remind you who you are at core, and where you come from. But remember you don’t know what you don’t know, so mess around and find out.

“We evolve as much as we allow ourselves to… Situate yourself in new spaces that stretch your own understanding of yourself.” —Leo, ’16

I was born in Arizona and in 2010 my dad lost his job and we had to move. My dad decided to move us to Washington and at first we still had a lot of the same struggles we had while living in Arizona. From living in a one-bedroom apartment with six people to barely having enough for food, we went through a lot while I was growing up.

My dad always told me to focus on school and continue my studies so that I could have a better future. He had to do hard manual labor and would take me to work with him to show me why I should go to college so I didn’t have to work like he did. I listened and graduated high school in 2019 and got accepted to the UW, I was so excited.

While attending UW I had my own struggles. I overcame that adversity and graduated June 2023 with a BS in Industrial and Systems Engineering. Because of this I was able to have a job lined up before I graduated and started my career, I am now working as an engineer and enjoying what I do.

I am very thankful for my family giving me the motivation to be able to become better for my future. My advice to everyone starting college is to keep going, no matter how hard it can get, you can do it.

“Keep going, no matter how hard it can get, you can do it. ”
–Cynthia, ’23

I was motivated to go to college to better my situation and even maybe understand my situation a little better. I have always brought up deep issues that the people around me never wanted to entertain. They were called “Holly-isms”. Why is the world so dysfunctional, why do people not care about what is going on in the world, I would muse.

I learned while earing my double major in Philosophy and Psychology that individuals who are stretched in cognitive capacity from things as big as trauma or common as everyday stress may lack the knowledge of how to deal with these problems or care to ponder them in the first place. I learned that knowledge is power, even if it leaves you feeling powerless due to the situation.

I wanted my child to think deeply and the best way to teach her that was to think deeply myself. I was also connected with my lost ethnicity. I was taught the wrongs of what was done to my Indigenous ancestors and the epigenetic results that my father, myself, and my daughter were not aware of but had to work through everyday. I learned more about what was affecting me personally than I could have ever imagined.

Now I am a cog of UW at the School of Dentistry. I work furthering change against the inequities I learned about. I do this by facilitating access to the dental care individuals need and cannot get elsewhere due to cost or insurance limitations; all while serving the next generations of dentists and dental specialists graduating from UW.

“I wanted my child to think deeply and the best way to teach her that was to think deeply myself.”
–Holly, ‘21

Everyone has a unique Husky experience, and mine is no different. When I was growing up, higher education was not a topic discussed in my household. I joined the military at the age of 18, young and impressionable. My first duty station was Fort Lewis, Washington, and I thought I knew everything, but in fact knew nothing at all.

One day, my platoon sergeant instructed me to go to the education center and enroll in college. He explained one of the benefits of serving your country is access to tuition assistance. As a young Black man in the Army, I didn’t think I had much choice, so I enrolled in Pierce College, located 30 miles south of Seattle.

Soon after, I was deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Despite this break from higher education, I knew that attending the University of Washington was my goal and I looked at ways to make that dream a reality. I finished my first two years at Pierce College and because of the long-standing transfer student pathway to Washington’s four-year colleges and universities, I successfully applied to UW Tacoma (UWT) and completed my undergraduate studies.

UWT was the perfect fit for me. As the board president of a local nonprofit in Tacoma, I had worked with UWT alums and was impressed with their ties to the community. UWT is one of the region’s leading institutions for military veterans, first-generation and transfer students. And with a student to faculty ratio of 16 to 1, my academic and extracurricular experiences were second to none. The relationships I made with faculty and fellow students remain as strong as ever. As I reflect on my own experiences, I encourage you to reminisce and share with others the stories that made your Husky experience meaningful.

A deep commitment to public service is a core value of our alumni association board leadership. Since graduating from UWT in 2016, I’ve served as a full-time law enforcement officer in Snohomish County and criminal investigator for the U.S. Army. My story, like so many others across our three campuses, reflects the diversity and life experiences of our students and alumni, each of whom contributes to UW’s rich tradition and impact.

UW President Ana Mari Cauce often encourages non-traditional routes to public higher education. I’m a living example of those paths less traveled: a Black veteran, first-generation, transfer student, and UWT graduate. I speak from personal experience when I say: Everyone belongs here. Go Huskies!

“I speak from personal experience when I say: Everyone belongs here.” — Joe, ’16

Being a first-generation college student signifies more than just earning a degree before my parents; it represents my journey through numerous challenges to forge a life I truly desire. I once took the value of education for granted, leading me to drop out of one high school and barely graduate from another. My poor mother endured my rebellious years, but ultimately, I found my path.
 

“Ultimately, I found my path.”
–Ngoc, ‘23

Being a first-generation college student represents the courage to forge my own path and break new ground for my family and community. It’s about defying the odds and transforming expectations into achievements. Starting with my undergraduate studies at the UW and later pursuing an MBA from UW Foster, I’ve seen how education can empower individuals to rewrite their stories. Embracing my Native American (Navajo) roots has been both a grounding force and a unique edge that fuels my ambitions. Each step forward isn’t just for me; it’s for everyone who believed in me and for those who will come after.

What motivated me to go to college? I was driven by a deep desire to create opportunities — not only for myself but for others who might follow in my footsteps.

I wanted to break barriers and prove that success isn’t limited by your starting point. My journey began with my undergraduate degree at the UW, where I set ambitious goals to gain the skills and experiences necessary to make a meaningful impact. The drive to elevate my future and serve as a role model for other Native American students fueled my ambition to pursue an MBA. I saw each challenge as a stepping stone toward something greater, knowing that my efforts would resonate far beyond the classroom.

The best part of my college experience was the incredible growth I experienced and the lasting friendships I made at the UW. Navigating both my undergraduate studies and MBA program taught me the power of collaboration, vulnerability and humor. Sharing my journey and connecting with others brought a deeper sense of purpose, turning every obstacle into an opportunity for stronger bonds. It wasn’t just about getting the degree; it was about shaping a version of myself that was ready to take on whatever came next.

I turned to my family, friends, and classmates for support. My family’s encouragement kept me grounded and reminded me of the bigger picture, while my friends and classmates brought camaraderie, humor and relief to the everyday grind.

What advice would I give to my college self? I’d tell my college self to embrace every challenge as a lesson and trust in the journey. Doubts will come, but each obstacle is an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Build relationships with people who can guide and challenge you. Being vulnerable is not a weakness — it’s a strength that creates connection and understanding. As a first-generation student, recognize that your journey is bigger than yourself — you’re paving the way for others to follow. Keep pushing forward and stay true to your ambitions.

“It wasn’t just about getting the degree; it was about shaping a version of myself that was ready to take on whatever came next.”
–Anthony, ‘17, ’24

My maternal grandparents were born in Italy. My grandfather died when he was 44, leaving my grandmother with 5 kids (and one on the way) to raise alone. Life was hard for my mom and college was not an option. My paternal grandparents moved to Seattle from Wisconsin in the early 1930’s, with stops in Spokane and Yakima. There were 10 children. My grandmother passed away when the two youngest were toddlers. My dad was a WWII veteran and did attend the UW for a few quarters, but quit to raise his family of three children.

Doing well in school was expected, but not talked about. I don’t remember college being discussed much when I was growing up, but for some reason I always assumed I would go.

I entered the UW in fall of ’66; flunked out; went to Highline Community College; got re-admitted to the UW and graduated in ’71 with a BA in Mathematics. With 10 kids, there were a lot of cousins, but I was the first to graduate from college. Several of my younger cousins have since graduated and many have told me I was an inspiration for them to go on to higher education.

When I went to the UW, one could work a part-time job and afford tuition and books. Not so easy today. Way too many kids have to take on large loan amounts to attend college. The legislature needs to do a better job of funding higher education.

Go Dawgs!

“Several of my younger cousins have since graduated and many have told me I was an inspiration for them to go on to higher education.” — Sandra, ’71

Being a first-generation college student holds profound meaning for me. It represents not only the opportunity and privilege to pursue my dreams but also the fulfillment of the dreams my parents had for me.

Growing up in a financially-challenged environment, I was never able to experience the true potential of an education. I did, however, witness the immense sacrifices and unwavering dedication my parents made to ensure my success. Their hard work and determination became my driving force. The pressure to fulfill their hopes and aspirations motivated me to persevere, never giving up on my dreams. I knew that obtaining a college education was not only a personal achievement but also a way to honor their sacrifices.

My college experience at the University of Washington was transformative in countless ways. The education I received was undoubtedly the most significant aspect. The knowledge and skills I acquired opened doors to new possibilities and unleashed my potential. The UW provided me with a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment that fostered personal and academic growth.

However, the connections I made during my time at the University of Washington were equally invaluable. I met my wife during my college years, and our shared journey through education created a deep bond. Moreover, I formed connections with numerous influential individuals who have, and still do, play a significant role in shaping me. The UW served as a hub of diverse perspectives, and these connections continue to inspire and support me on my journey.

When faced with challenges and in need of support, my family has always been my anchor. Not solely limited to my blood relatives, but also the family I have found within the college community and beyond.

As a first-generation college graduate from the University of Washington, I am immensely grateful for the opportunities I have been afforded. I carry the dreams and aspirations of my parents within me, and I am determined to utilize my education and connections to make a positive impact in the world. I stand as a testament to the power of perseverance, and I hope to inspire future generations to pursue their dreams relentlessly, just as I have.

“The UW served as a hub of diverse perspectives, and these connections continue to inspire and support me on my journey.” —Danny, ‘15

Being a first-generation college student allowed me to become “professional,” i.e. white collar vs blue collar.

Motivation: My parents told me at age 5 that I would go to college and I believed them.

Best part of my experience: Haggett Hall and my friends there.

Where did I go for support? My roommate Lory, who was smarter than me.

What would I tell my college self? Do the same — maybe study more.
 

“Being a first-generation college student allowed me to become ‘professional.’” —Barbara, ‘75