What It's Really Like Being A First Generation College Student | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

What It's Really Like Being A First Generation College Student

It's so much more than what it seems.

24
What It's Really Like Being A First Generation College Student
Jocey Rodulfo

A role model is defined by Webster as someone who another person admires and tries to be like. Growing up, I didn’t have any role models. Of course I had people I admired in my family. I admire my parents for all of their struggles and hard work that they have gone through in order to get our family where we are today, but I would not choose that life for myself. My parents raised me to always remember that even though we have a great life, there is an even better life out there, and I can have it all as long as I work hard enough.

I remember when I was in second grade, and I met an aunt for the first time. She was kind, smart, energetic, and we were all so happy to see her. She went back home, and a few months passed, then she was gone. She was taken by cancer. My mother explained to me what it was, and I all I could remember thinking was how unfair it all was. It was that day that I decided I wanted to be a doctor. As usual, most thought it would just be a phase, like a child saying they want to be a rocket scientist one day and a teacher the next. Twelve years later, and here I am studying to go on to medical school.

I had more than enough examples of what not to do while growing up. I always knew that no matter what I did, I did not want to let my parents down. Unless you are a first generation college student too, it’s hard to understand how difficult it is to be in this situation. It’s not just about going to school and making the grades. It’s the fact that since we were able to make it this far, there is no way we can fail now. You carry the weight of not only school, but your entire family behind you.

All eyes are on you. At family gatherings, the only thing you get asked about is school and what your next steps are. Everyone is tentative to see what you are going to accomplish next, because they know that whatever you accomplish, they’ll be able to say with pride that you are a part of their family. Every step you take is in representation of your family. The younger ones see the admiration you receive and start to think, “Hey, maybe she’s onto something,” and begin to ask you about what they should do to succeed. Before you know it, you’re becoming the role model for them that you never had. If you think about it too much, it can be quite overwhelming. However, with family knowing this too, the amount of support you receive is never ending.

I’m sure there are times when some think it’s selfish of me to move away from home, or that I’m doing all of this just to be able to give off the “look at me doing better than you” vibe, but that was and never is the case. It gives me great joy to say that one day I’ll be able to repay all of them and give them a little extra too. Not because they need it, but because all along they just want you to succeed.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

21030
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

8875
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

6439
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

5562
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments