First Generation Warriors

Major: B.S Biology, Senior 
Leadership Positions: Vice-President of the Freshman Class (freshman year), Student Senator, Orientation Leader, RHA, Board of Trustees Student Representative ( Sophomore and Junior Year), NJCU NAACP Inaugural President ( Currently). 

Being a first-generation student has instilled in me a strong sense of resilience and determination. Navigating academic and professional spaces often meant embracing the unknown and learning to adapt quickly. I developed a deep sense of responsibility to not only uplift myself but also pave the way for others in my family and community.

Major: Exercise Science 
Captain of Track and Field Team 

My one piece of advice that I would give to a first gen student is to always remember your why. Always keep in mind the reason that you started in the first place and let that be your motivation to finish your story, let your why help you to get it all done

Major: Psychology and Criminal Justice Minor 
Project Manager for Student Activities Board 

One piece of advice I would give to first-generation students that would help them is that whenever you feel your lowest, lean on your support system and if you don't have one, create one and build those bonds because sometimes when the road gets too dark and you can't light your own path, others will help share a little light to ignite your own.

Major: Global Business 
Student Activities Board Project Manager, Student Manager for the Center for Student Persistence and Success 

Being a first-generation college student, I have been very driven to complete my college education and earn my degree. As a first-generation college student, I feel more motivated to make it to the end because the rest of my family has not been able to achieve that. I want to make my family proud and be an example for my future kids. I want them to be able to see my life and what I accomplished so they know that they can achieve it too.

Major: Social Work and Psychology 
Leadership Position: President of the Upsilon Tau chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated President of Social Work & Sociology Club President of OSP Connect Marketing Manager for Greek Life Student Senator-At-Large 

One piece of advice that I would share with another first-generation student that would help them achieve success like I have done is network! Networking is your best friend in college, and I keep myself very occupied and because I am a student leader here at NJCU it helps me with lots of opportunities.

Major: Management 
Leadership position: Student coordinator for the NJCU Men of Color Initiative 

Being a first gen student has open my eyes to a lot of great things. Me being the first in my family to go to college and soon to graduate, all the services at the university has been very helpful to me. Major shout-out to the OSP/EOF department, The NJCU Men of Color Initiative, Dean of Students, The Provost Office, Center for Student Persistence and Success and the whole NJCU community for playing a huge role in my academic career and helping me become the man I am today.

Major: Exercise Science 
Multi-Disciplinary Leader in Education, Coaching, and Creative Direction Supplemental Instructor, Creative Director for the Dance Club, Honors Public Relations Officer, & Honors Peer Mentor. 

Studying as a first-generation student has opened up a wide variety of opportunities and doors that otherwise I would have never had access to. One of the biggest advantages for me has been being a part of the TriO Learning Community on campus. With the help of their resources and the true dedication of the office to the student population, I am so grateful I've been able to be a part of their community.

Major: Psychology 
Leadership Position: Student Government Association Vice President of Public Relations and Marketing 

One piece of advice I’d give to a fellow first-generation student that could assist them in their journey throughout college is to try and build connections on confidence with different people or organizations to build yourself up as a connection for others

Major: Spanish 
Military Veteran, Certified Nurse Assistant 

Becoming a first generational student has not been a simple task from fighting through the adoption system. I have been blessed with such a school that takes care of all the necessary necessities in order for me to focus in school. I have become more Determined, resilient, flexible, gracious, and a strong, independent, black woman. Getting my degree is what I worked hard for I will be the one to break all generational curses in my family.