First-Generation College Stories

After so many ups and downs and the encouragement from the Minority Affairs department, my love of learning and reading, I was able to get my BA.

Graduating from college has provided so many opportunities for me. I have the best career now working still with the UW family at UW Medicine where my dream first started coming back full circle where my mother was cured of her cancer at the UW hospital in Seattle. Completing my college degree has led me to working with the best leadership team I have ever worked with out of all the clinics I have worked at. I have been honored to help support a team that was on the frontlines during the Covid crisis.

Then, in 2012, my wife Sabrina went to UW Bothell to get her Teaching Certificate. The campus was literally across the freeway from my office, but I had never been on campus. She encouraged me to check out the programs there and find something that was interesting to me. She and the UWB staff helped me understand how to get credit for all the classes I had taken at six different schools and how to apply for financial aid.

Two years later I was walking across the stage at Hec-Ed and getting ready to go to grad school. My parents got to see me graduate, and I was able to finally call myself a Husky!

The advice that I would have given myself was the same advice my wife gave me: find something that is interesting to you. You are going to spend a lot of time reading, talking and writing about it, don’t pick a major that sounds boring from the start.

The three boys were sent to a truck farm in Issaquah and worked for return of board and room. When the oldest brother had enough English, he moved into Seattle, worked, and then brought his brothers to live with him. All had very little schooling, but my father graduated from Broadway High School in Seattle. He had mostly failing grades with the language issues, but top grades in all his math classes. He worked as a janitor when I was young and eventually became a woodworking machine salesman — much beloved by his customers. He had a charming personality and loved people. He also understood the importance of education. He often told me that if I ever wanted to live differently from the way we were living, I needed an education and a profession to take me through the bumps of life. He also shared, he never wanted to hear that I got into trouble at school and if he did, it would be double trouble for me when I got home. I was the oldest of two girls and expectations were high.

Fortunately, I loved school and thrived in the environment of high school and with my friends who were all intending on college. I quickly fell into the mode that yes — I would be going to college. My maternal grandmother was very supportive of my goals and was able to be of some help financially when I made the choice to attend WSC, in those days in Pullman, WA. Leaving home was very alluring to me and with some other close girlfriends we headed for WSC, but it was an expensive cost for my family and after two years, I made the choice to apply to the University of Washington. I could live at home, work, and go to school. Such a wise decision this was. I was still unsure what profession I would pursue — education, nursing and/or sociology were acceptable choices for women in those early days. I knew I did not wish to work nights or weekends as a nurse. My parents did not understand what sociology was and as I had not unusual talent, education was the choice. What a wise choice this was!

When the decision was made with the guidance of a most helpful counselor, we decided that being an elementary teacher would work well for me with my skills, personality and interest. I was so lucky to have had the best professors, and eventually Miss MacDonals who guided me in my student teaching experience. She was amazing. I cannot believe how, with the number of students she supervised, she made each connection so personal. It was so important to her that we succeeded. She was very tough on her rules, expecting nothing but the best effort on our part. But we learned, we thrived, and I felt prepared when I accepted my first teaching job at Edmonds Elementary School, third grade, in Edmonds, WA. I also taught in Bellevue, WA; for many years in Wenatchee, WA; and as an elementary principal in Sedro-Woolley. I ended up supervising student teachers for Washington State University in Wenatchee. How proud my parents were of me when they attended my graduation in June of 1957. My father would from then on introduce me as his daughter, the teacher. He would beam with pride. I would continue to teach and work in education for 25-30 years.

What continues to make this story so special is that my father’s oldest brother died at 21 and never married or had children. His younger brother also did not have a child that attended college and my dear younger sister found other avenues that gave her happiness. I credit my life’s journey with the support of family, friends, the excellent high school education I had in those years at Roosevelt High School and the counseling, support, and caring supervision I experienced at the University of Washington. I was motivated to succeed, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity I had. I have had a marvelous life, one I could hardly imagine when I was a young girl, living in an immigrant family of limited income and few options available to live the good life. Yes — education was my ticket for all that I enjoy today at age 87. Thank you, University of Washington! (I have three children who are all graduates of WSU — Cougars! Also, all my grandchildren have college degrees.)

I was aware of the local college because it was located across the street from my high school. I went out for high school football, and my junior year annual contains this on page 111: “One bright spot for fans was a spectacular 103 yard punt by kicking ace, Tom Bennett. Astounded spectators watched Bennett’s booming kick travel from end zone to end zone. It was the longest punt ever kicked by an East High player.”

After graduation from high school, I moved to southern California and lived with my aunt Ruth, an elementary school principal. She motivated me to go to college. I attended Long Beach City College, which now has 24,000 students. I played football there, and that resulted in UCLA offered me a football scholarship.

I would advise myself to get as much college education as possible, which I did:

• Long Beach City College: Associate’s Degree
• UCLA: Bachelor’s Degree
• University of Washington: Master’s Degree
• Washington State University: Doctor of Philosophy Degree

In graduate school, I had a research assistantship to support me financially. I grew up economically challenged and knew how to survive with very little money.

While in graduate school at UW, I found that there was very little support or understanding for First Gen students. Most of my colleagues had graduated from the Ivy League or prominent schools and came from middle or upper middle class backgrounds. There was subtle mocking of my poverty and stark differences in our backgrounds that were not treated with compassion. It felt lonely and isolating. Most professors were not sympathetic to these challenges.

Nevertheless, I persisted, survived and went on to a flourishing career. My advice is to just keep putting one foot in front of the other day by day, and find your allies where you can. There may not be very many allies out there, but there are some and they will help you to move forward.

I had big dreams of being surrounded by different people and continuing my education, but I had a near-falling out with my parents over whether I would continue. Just before my second year started, my father got a new job and suddenly our financial system changed: according to the rules, we could not, somehow, afford my education.

I debated taking time off to really think deeply about what I wanted to do with my life, as the financial burden was overwhelming, but it was ultimately my mother who encouraged me to continue and took a lot of the burden on herself. She told me with what looked like flames in her eyes that I was going to college no matter what.

Honestly, the best thing about my college experience was what I expected: a combination of meeting people from all over the world and seeing from their perspectives. It further solidified my goals, my values and who I am today.

When I needed support with paperwork, I turned to my mother, but when I needed emotional support, I turned to my bestie and roommate. We couldn’t offer each other answers, but we could offer support, and there were many days where one of us would wrap the other in blankets, bring them something warm to drink, and listen to their troubles.

If I had the chance to give my college self any advice, I would tell her to go out there and not be afraid. And that, yes, one day, she would end up in Japan.

Drawing parallels to Disability Justice and Indigenous perspectives, “utang na loob” is about showing gratitude to those who have helped you, and “kapwa” is about embracing our shared identity as humans and responsibility to one another. These values are not about the re-payment of a favor, but rather the gratitude and acknowledgment that no one is ever “self-made” — we are all interdependent and our struggles and joys are interconnected. To me, being a first-generation college student at the University of Washington means gaining critical consciousness and feeling empowered to reclaim the identity that was once erased by oppressive systems. As the first in my family to work toward a PhD, I am filled with so much pride not just for myself, but for all the people I carry with me in my work — past, present, and future.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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!

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.

Because my parents could not afford to contribute anything to my education, after high school I joined the United States Marine Corps to qualify for the GI bill. While in the Marines, my platoon commander also encouraged me to go to college. He even gave me books to read and helped me with my application to the University of Washington. The UW was the only college where I applied.

As a veteran, the on-campus Veteran’s Administration was extremely helpful and encouraging. The GI Bill was not nearly enough to pay all expenses so I worked as a dock worker and truck driver helper summers and holidays. The owner of the company then asked me to work in the office after school on a full time basis.

Juggling school full time and working full time was difficult but I managed to fit in some of the fun parts of college, mainly Husky sports. When I was younger, I sold peanuts for a company at Husky games so it was ironic that I was now attending.

The entire UW experience was so enlightening and the overall education was exhilarating to a poor kid from the Rainier Valley. The education opened my eyes to possibilities that I could achieve anything I wanted. I met my current wife my senior year and we graduated together.

My biggest advisor and supporter during my school years was the owner of the trucking company that employed me. He was a UW Alum and let me schedule my work hours around my school schedule. He asked about my classes and my grades and encouraged me when times were difficult. The advisors at the VA were also very kind and genuinely interested in my progress. I am not sure I would have made it without both of their support.

The biggest advice I would give my college self would be to take more advantage of the “Office Hours” offered by the professors and graduate teaching assistants. When I would be struggling with a lesson, I didn’t go there for help and spent many hours trying to figure things out on my own.

My parents and family were very proud when I graduated with a business degree. Having that degree has helped me advance in my career. I worked my way up from dock worker to become CEO of a major transportation firm. I was just appointed CEO of Pierce Transit in Pierce County. It has been 41 years since I graduated from the UW and attribute much of my success to the education I received there. I am a very proud Husky.

I built a community among fellow students and professors, who were always so willing to share their experience and time, and help me feel a part of something to which I thought I was an outsider. I also had a supportive boyfriend at the time, whose parents were academics and provided a lot of encouragement. I always felt that others believed in me more than I did in myself. Slowly and steadily I gained self-confidence and learned that I can rely on my curiosity and my abilities. I built critical thinking skills that I now see as one of my greatest assets.

The advice I would give to my college self is this: believe in yourself. You have courage and can do great things. After graduating Phi Beta Kappa from UW with honors in Art History, I went on to earn a master’s degree from the UW Information School, and a Juris Doctorate from the UW School of Law. I am a triple dawg, and a Husky for life.

My mother, too, faced challenges as a young parent, setting aside her own dreams to support her family. These women sacrificed so much to ensure that I could achieve what they couldn’t, and I went to college for them—to honor their dreams and the strength they passed down. For every step I took on campus, I thought of them and of the potential they saw in me—a reminder that no matter our beginnings, we can break ground and make our dreams reality.

College wasn’t without hardship. I entered feeling unanchored, having lost the closest members of my family early on. Often, I felt adrift, longing for the support they would have offered. But their whispered words and the encouragement they left behind became my guiding force. Gradually, I transformed my experience at the University of Washington into a place of exploration and growth—a place where my dreams took root, supported by their love.

The University of Washington became even more special when I met my husband there, an unexpected blessing that added yet another layer of meaning to my time on campus. The university, already a place where I’d found my way forward, now holds a lifelong place in my heart as the start of our journey together. I am forever grateful that UW is stitched into the memory of our journey together.

If I could speak to my college self, I’d tell her to lean on the strength of those who came before her, to reach out to others who understand, and to remember that she belongs. The road may be challenging, but every step forward is a tribute to the dreams of those who loved and believed in her.

What motivated you to go to college?
Before being hired as a Dental Assistant, I volunteered for six months at a local dental clinic called Seamar Dental Clinic after graduating from high school. I began working as a dental assistant during my first quarter of college and continue to do so at Seamar Dental Clinic today.

While I have a spark and a dream of becoming a dentist one day, I went into college knowing it would not be easy, but I was committed and dedicated and started my journey in college with both challenging and exciting days ahead of me, and I was curious throughout my journey. Because of the transition from high school to college, my first quarter of college was the most difficult quarter of my undergraduate career. This, however, sets me up for failure as well as success, and I welcome my failures because they help me stay focused.

What was the best thing about your college experience?
I had so many great college experiences, and I enjoyed them all not only because they were all great, but also because I had to challenge myself while I was enjoying myself, getting my feet wet, getting out of my comfort zone, and broadening my experience. Because many of us don’t embrace challenges and make it a great college experience, and we frequently don’t try to be in the path where you think you can’t thrive because we have this fear of failure mindset. As previously stated, failure forces you to learn from your mistakes and become a master of that experience.

Networking with a large number of students and striving to be better than yesterday. I was one of two Highline College students chosen to join the Washington Academic Team in 2020, and I have grown and learned to be confident in my academic career. In 2021, I participated in an extremely competitive summer internship at the UW Seattle site called SHPEP, which opened my eyes and strengthened my path in dentistry. And this past summer, I worked as an RTA for SHPEP at UW Seattle, assisting scholars in medicine, public health, and dentistry from all over the county. This was one of the most humbling experiences I’ve ever had, and I’ll never forget it.

Who did you turn to when you needed support?
My mentors, teachers, and professors have been instrumental in my success as an undergrad and now as a prospective dental school applicant. I believe I’ve made the commitment, navigation, and networking to stay connected and be honest about who you are, and they’ve been a treasure. I believe I will never be able to repay their sacrifice and dedication, and I will cherish every minute they spend with me personally. I will always treasure their humility, and I can commit to making them happy by paying it forward and serving others in the same way they did for us.

I believe there is a cycle, and only the great ones inspire us to go above and beyond. I’ve met one of the most incredible mentors in my life. I don’t take them for granted, but I appreciate their kindness and support. That is why I am happy where I am today, and I only have one goal: to change as many lives as they have changed mine. I thank all of my mentors and teachers, and may God bless them all.

What advice would you give to your college self?
Do not be afraid to fail or to share your failures with others. I guarantee you will grow and change people’s lives this way.

In college, you do not have to be smart, but you must develop a strong work ethic, consistency, work hard, and take risks by challenging yourself. You must also be curious and walk with anyone who reflects your personality, while remaining true to your soul at all times.

Do not compare yourself to anyone because each of us is unique and capable of something we lack; do not try to fit into boxes because none of us are perfect; and don’t worry about what others think of you because you don’t have to care. Instead, embrace the environment and be willing to learn from others. That is how you will progress academically as well as personally.

Instead of being a gunner, be a humble and optimistic student who likes his classmates and learns from them because they have the real knowledge you seek. And maintaining our identity is critical because difficult experiences can occasionally change who we are. As much as we all want to do well in college or graduate school, I believe it is critical that we never lose sight of the bigger picture while maintaining our posture, dignity, and tenacity.

I was so happy when I found out that the UW will allow students who had taken a break from school to come back and resume their education.

In 2014, I graduated from the UW School of Nursing — Seattle Campus with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in Education.

I have been an RN, BSN for the past ten years. My most recent job was as Float RN at Swedish Hospital and I currently accepted an RN position at Harborview Medical Center planned neuro/spine surgery.

I continue to be grateful for this opportunity that was provided for me and am so happy I made the decision to go back to school in order to be a role model for my twin boys who will be graduating in a year from high school.

When I was in my second year, my advisor at Everett Community College encouraged me to apply to the University of Washington. A distinct memory I have is that I did not know what the word “matriculated” meant, and so I sat in my car with the application — feeling a bit discouraged. I had to drive to the library, go in, and ask what it meant before completing the forms.

I was admitted to UW and began as a transfer student here in 1993. I will never forget how proud I felt receiving that envelope — on the top left corner it said “Your Offer of Admission” in purple script. It took me 3 years to complete my Bachelor’s in American Ethnic Studies, and I graduated in 1996. From there, I was recruited to join Microsoft where I began my career in Human Resources. This year — I came full circle and re-joined the University of Washington as Human Resources Manager in the Burke Museum!

The advice I would give is to challenge any inner voice that says an educational experience is not for you — as FirstGens, we are everywhere!

In those days, the cultural consensus was that girls only wanted to attend junior college to obtain their “Mrs. Degree.” The expectation was — even though on a subconscious level — that our life purpose should focus on finding a soulmate, marrying him, having children and taking care of our family. Yet, college was a dream of mine from as far back as I could remember.

To escape my dysfunctional family, I married my first serious boyfriend one month after I completed high school. I started my first job on the Monday following my high school graduation on a Thursday. I took the civil service exam in my senior year on a whim as a means toward an end to gain my independence. I figured that I could get a summer job, and later I’d consider registering at Los Angeles Junior College in the fall. I passed that test with a high score, and the L.A. County Flood Control District called me for an interview as a Typist Clerk. That interview lasted for less than a half hour, and that job lasted for ten years. Consequently, college never came into the picture as a reality. Especially not after my identical twin daughters were born when I was twenty-one. Even after divorcing my abusive husband of seven years, my dream of college remained in my heart and mind. It was always there, regardless of my life circumstances, gently nagging at me.

I remarried three years later and moved to Washington. At the age of thirty-three, when my youngest daughter by my second husband was born and my twins were twelve, I registered as a part-time student at Bellevue Community College. I was not gainfully employed because I wanted to care for my newborn at least until she turned one, so it seemed like perfect timing. I attended classes and planned to matriculate as a full-time student in the fall. My initial goal was an Associate of Arts Degree, after which I wanted to transfer to a four-year university. But the best laid plans of women and mice often go awry. Soon after I began taking classes, due to my husband’s employment situation, I returned to a full-time job and quit college. It was one of the toughest decisions I’d ever made, but I believed it necessary to sacrifice my dream of college for the financial well-being of my family.

Fast forward ten more years when my second husband left me, and the law firm where I worked fired me. I was devastated. As one might expect, my self-esteem took a big hit. I then visited the BCC campus to investigate the possibility of reawakening my dream of college. I spoke with a counselor at the Women’s Center to discuss my options. While talking to her, the last ten years of my life flashed before my eyes. I suddenly realized that I’d lived the last ten years of my life for everyone except myself. In that moment of clarity, I understood deep within that I had to take action toward my dream of a college degree that I’d put on hold for far too long. I didn’t know how I’d accomplish it, but my inner drive didn’t allow me to consider any of the obstacles I might encounter along the way. Instead of searching for other employment, I registered for the fall quarter and made up my mind to do anything I had to do to make it happen.

“I understood deep within that I had to take action toward my dream of a college degree that I’d put on hold for far too long.” — Joy, ’94

I collected unemployment compensation for a while and that, at first, helped to pay my bills. I was a divorced, single mother. My daughter and I regularly visited the food bank so we’d have enough to eat, and my daughter made her own sacrifices of time away from me while I attended classes. My situation often felt dire. But every time I wondered where my next dollar was coming from, something happened that reconfirmed, regardless of the challenges I faced, that I was on the right path. For instance, one day I found in my mailbox a check for the cash value of a life insurance policy that I’d completely forgotten about. Another time, while walking through the Registrar’s Office, I spied a brochure announcing that the alumni association was offering its first $500 scholarship to a deserving student. Immediately, I started completing an application and writing a letter explaining why I thought that I deserved the scholarship. I didn’t hear anything back until the president of the alumni association called me later. He began by apologizing profusely because he was supposed to contact me a week earlier to notify me that I’d won the scholarship. He ended by inviting me to an annual alumni dinner where he’d officially award the scholarship to me. After hanging up the phone, I started crying hysterically. My daughter rushed into the room believing that the caller must have given me tragic news. I told her it wasn’t tragic news at all; it was wonderful news. Subsequently, she and I went to the dinner and that scholarship paid my total tuition for the next quarter. Those were only two of the serendipitous events which reaffirmed — again and again — that I was on the right path. That path was continuing to attend classes toward reaching my goal of an Associate of Arts Degree.

Since I’d previously earned college credits when my then-teenager was a toddler, I’d already made considerable progress toward achieving my goal. There were days when it was all I could do to put one foot in front of the other, but I did. I kept attending my classes, and during the summers, I found temporary jobs as a legal secretary (the career I’d chosen when my daughter was five). After three continuous years of grinding homework, uncertainty, and despite all odds, I accumulated sufficient credits to qualify for my AA. When the president handed my degree to me, she understood the struggles I’d faced and conquered, and she said, “It’s taken you a long time to get here, but you finally made it!” She was absolutely right. My daughter was nine months old when I started taking classes part-time, and she was fifteen when I received my Associate of Arts & Sciences Degree with Honors on June 14, 1991. I felt self-satisfied, weary and hopeful about the next step to further pursue a four-year degree.

Following my graduation, the law firm where I’d worked for the past two summers offered me a full-time job. While my choice to return to full-time employment was difficult to make, I knew that financially, it would result in the best outcome for both my daughter and me. So I accepted their offer. Ironically, similar to the time when I learned about the alumni association scholarship, I chanced upon a brochure for an informational meeting for the University of Washington’s Evening Degree Program. It had already succeeded in its first year, and the UW was anxious to register students to continue the program in its second year. Of course, I went to the meeting and, again, I came away with a plan. I could actually work a full-time job, while maintaining my status as a full-time student at the University of Washington by taking night classes. By that time, I was familiar with the various means of financial support I could get as a college student, so I immediately applied for grants. To my surprise and astonishment, I received a grant for my first quarter as a student at the UW. Thus began the next step in my pursuit of a college degree.

During my first quarter at UW, I continued to commute by bus as I had previously done. I took my regular bus to work in the morning. After I finished my workday, I caught another bus that took me to the UW campus. After my last class, I took a third bus back downtown, but because it was a late hour, I had to transfer to a fourth bus that took me the rest of the way home. My normal commuter bus stopped running after early evening. There was only one quarter that I managed to survive commuting by bus. It was far too time consuming, plus I had a teenage daughter at home. So in my second quarter, I determined it was worth spending the money for parking downtown during the day, and my car was then available to drive to the UW campus after work. There were definite benefits to paying for a parking permit on campus instead of bussing it. I was going to night classes four days a week. There were evenings after I arrived at the UW campus that I’d take a power nap in the front seat of my Toyota Corolla before class to get a little more rest. I needed to do my homework in the computer lab at school because I didn’t own a computer. There were nights that instead of going directly home after class, I drove back downtown, and I did my homework on the office computer. I’d call my daughter to touch base with her, and tell her that I wouldn’t arrive home until after she was asleep. Often, I didn’t get home until 2:00 or 3:00 a.m.; however, I still had to rise at the same time every morning and make it to my regular day job. On those days when I felt the most drained, I tried to raise my energy level by wearing the brightest clothes in my closet.

Fast forward again. After three consecutive years of working full-time as a Legal Secretary during the day, attending UW classes four nights a week, and fulfilling my responsibilities as a single mother of a teenage daughter, I could finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. The administrators of the Evening Degree Program asked me to speak at a couple of orientations for new students. They wanted me to talk about my personal experience to demystify the truth about college, especially as an adult returning student. I always told students that, for me, going to college came from within my heart and soul, yet it was still exhausting and seldom immediately rewarding. I said there would be times when the temptation to quit altogether would overwhelm them, but if they persevered, they would eventually reach the end of their own journey.

Finally, at the age of fifty-one and thirty-three years after I graduated from high school, I was set to attend my graduation ceremony at the University of Washington. When I gave my daughter the date, she informed me that she couldn’t attend. Her high school graduation was the day before; she planned to attend the all-night party; and she wasn’t willing to wake up early the next morning to attend my graduation. Fortunately, I’d progressed enough in my self-growth that I didn’t take it personally. She was a young woman in her own right (which I’d strongly encouraged her entire life), and I had no issue with her not watching me graduate. After receiving my diploma, I noticed language on it that read, “Degree of Bachelor of Arts Cum Laude.” I had no idea what that meant, so I asked my classmate sitting next to me. She informed me that it was a designation given only to students who maintained at least a 3.0 GPA and were in the 75th percentile or above other students in their class. She explained that there was one higher designation, Magna Cum Laude, but I had achieved the second highest designation for a college graduate. At the celebratory brunch for graduating students, the accomplishment I’d reached against all odds started to soak in, and I thought, “No matter what, no one can ever take my college degree from me!” I felt beyond proud of myself and basked in the glory of completing what was for me the “biggest piece of unfinished business” of my life.

In this journey, I am not only setting a precedent for my family but also aspiring to create a ripple effect that will inspire others like me. Being here is a testament to what can happen when hard work meets opportunity, and my mission is to honor that by not only succeeding for myself but paving the way for those who will come after me.

My strongest motivation to pursue a college education has always been grounded in my roots: my community in El Salvador, my family, and the vision of the person I aspire to become. Growing up, I felt the encouragement of an entire village cheering me on, each person’s hope fueling my own. As a first-generation college student, I recognize that I am not only reaching for a better future for myself but also breaking barriers that have historically limited my family and community. This journey offers me the tools to break cycles of poverty and to access knowledge and resources that would have otherwise remained out of reach.

Having lived here for over 11 years, I’ve seen how people close to me have struggled, often falling prey to exploitation simply because they lacked access to critical information about their rights, work benefits, and countless other resources. Witnessing this reality has only strengthened my determination to go to college—not just for my personal growth but to serve as a voice for those who may not yet have one. My education is a means to empower others, to ensure they aren’t left vulnerable due to a lack of knowledge, and to open doors to choices that can genuinely improve their lives.

For me, college is more than a personal milestone; it is a bridge to uplift my community, advocate for justice, and drive change for those I am privileged to reach. This mission is what propels me forward every single day.

I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been supported by an inspiring circle of mentors, role models, and sponsors who have guided me along my journey. Among them, my mother, Mirna Menjivar, has been my steadfast foundation, and my remarkable sponsor, Rose Tatlow, provided invaluable encouragement. Even the memories of my younger self—who once doubted she’d ever have access to opportunities or a path toward her dreams—have become a source of strength, reminding me of how far I’ve come.

If I could offer advice to my college self, it would be this: embrace every opportunity to network and seek to build genuine, lasting connections with those around you. Be curious, learn from others, and stay open to new perspectives and ideas. Don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself and share your culture and story with pride. Remember, college is not just a stepping stone to the future; it’s a chance to enjoy every moment, to take pride in how far you’ve come, and to utilize every resource available. Above all, remember to pause, take a deep breath, and appreciate the journey and the incredible resilience that brought you here.

Receiving that large packet from UW, months later than the other schools I applied to, was a surprise. Opening it to see it was a provisional acceptance was even more of a surprise. How could you be provisionally accepted? It turns out I was right about my record being not quite good enough to get into a “good” school. UW was willing to overlook my past mistakes if I could prove I was capable of succeeding in a university system. I had to come to campus for four weeks in the summer to attend classes, receive tutoring and adhere to a strict study-eat-sleep schedule. If I had failed at that tryout my life would have taken a completely different path.

Having no adult figures in my life to help guide me through this wasn’t in my mind at the time since that was pretty standard for every other aspect of life as well. This mindset got me into college but it also may have held me back. I didn’t check in with an advisor until my senior year of college. I was doing fine to graduate but I hadn’t been very ambitious in my class scheduling. I do look back now and wish I had taken better advantage of the opportunities provided to me by UW. My advice then is don’t be afraid to fail. Take the difficult class that will pay off better in the future. Go to study centers with your classmates and work through the course together. You will make better friends and a better future than if you only watch your GPA when selecting classes.

To have something that was all mine seemed wonderful, as did the financial freedom and doors that would open if I had a college education. To me this meant an easier life and academics was the key to that.

What was the best thing about your college experience? · Different People, Different Backgrounds · Finding Oneself

What was the worst thing about your college experience? I often felt that I was the ONLY as an African American first generational female. I had very few people close to me who I could talk to about my experience or could provide guidance or assure me what I was experiencing was a normal part of my college years. This is a huge resource that many first-generation students lack. Finances: College is NOT free! I wanted this opportunity, but I did not want to go into debt paying for a better life. Therefore, I enrolled in the University of Washington’s evening degree programs, which allowed me to work full-time during the day and take a full course load at night. This combination combined with scholarships, fellowships, and minimum Federal Student Aid got me where I am today. The latter was a extremely intimidating process when you are doing it for the first time, as I had come from a background where money was never discussed openly, but I knew there was never enough.

Who did you turn to when you needed support? My evening degree advisor, Connie Montgomery. Ms. Montgomery and I have since developed a lifelong friendship, and it is because of her that I now mentor for young adults through Washington State Opportunity Scholarship.

What would you say to your college self? “I am glad you have a 10-year plan (you will crush this plan, and do great things), but breathe and celebrate the small wins (passing an exam, turning in a paper on time), they are just as important if not more important than the big wins (passing a course, maintaining your grades for financial aid) toward obtaining your diploma. Fully embracing this chapter of your life, it is not a checklist.

If they didn’t choose to marry and have my brother in their late teens, I would not have had the chance to be born, grow into the successful person I am today and with it, obtain my college degree from the University of Washington. It is by seeing their examples of selflessness, hard work, integrity, strong character, and resiliency that I myself was able to put myself through college while working a full-time job and obtaining my Bachelor’s Degree.

It is with great pride that I can say I am the first college graduate in my family and a Husky through and through!! Go Dawgs!!!

As a young girl, I didn’t see Latina leaders in my community or in biotech, and I was determined to help change that. Knowing that someone you identify with accomplished something you aspire can make your goal feel more attainable.

The best thing about my college experience was meeting people from different backgrounds and learning about their stories, culture, and food. I came from a place without much diversity so this exposure taught me to value different perspectives; seeking and taking other perspectives into consideration helped me grow as a person and thrive in my career.

If I could give any advice to my college self, I would say that it’s never too early to look for internships. Use your internships wisely: they are an opportunity for you to apply what you’ve learned, network, learn new skills, identify what you do and don’t want from an entry level position, and find a mentor. Finally, don’t forget to make time to celebrate your accomplishments and share your successes with others for an added boost of motivation!

I was a Work Study student with the School of Social Work Admissions for four years and this was an invaluable experience. I am currently the Assistant Director of Finance Shared Services, I have had several progressive positions at the University of Washington including a period working with the Executive Vice President’s Office.

There were so many good experiences from college that shaped me into the person I am today. The UW had a way of gently but firmly encouraging me to get out of my comfort zone and join clubs and build community. I gravitated towards the resources that focused on balance between studies, family, friends and community. I used many resources on campus from study rooms at Odegaard, to the Career Center, and the Ethnic Cultural Center, professor office hours, copy/print centers, loaner-laptop program, attending performances/personally performing in Meany Hall, and many others. I built friendships that persist to this day which established a professional network when I entered my career.

When I needed support at the University I leaned into community-based organizations on campus, both academic groups such as Phi Eta Sigma and Unidas Seremos, a multicultural women’s organization on campus. Unidas was and still is a student organization run out of the ECC. I held several leadership roles in the organization over the years and the women in this organization were a constant resource for questions/concerns throughout the years.

Advice I would give my future self, is study abroad! I was a bit timid and introverted and I think studying abroad would have been a fantastic experience. Also join a study group!! This is a great way to break up the work, meet new friends and develop collaboration skills.

The UW is a wonderful place to study and work, I value all of my time here over the last 15 years!

In 1972, I didn’t realize that I would be one of the rare tribal students to graduate with a Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) degree in forest engineering. But it was even more rare to be an urban Indian and return to work with my tribe, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, as the forest manager from 1984 to 1986. I also returned to the Spokane Indian Reservation where my mother grew up and I was the forest manager from 1986 to 1994.

I was motivated to attend college by three things back in the 1970’s. First, the University of Washington held a recruiting session during my senior year at Renton High School in 1972. The recruiters came to our school and wanted me to apply, especially when they found out that I was a tribal member. I planned on attending community college to improve my math and science skills, but they told me about the UW Equal Opportunity Program (EOP) that provided remedial classes for supporting minority students.

The second motivation to attend college was the cost in 1972. Tuition for community college was $88 per quarter and $188 per quarter at UW. I worked at KFC during the summer at the minimum wage of $1.60/hr and saved enough money to attend college. I also received $300 from our Tribe which paid for half of my tuition for the year.

The third motivation to attend and finish college was finding out that I could work outside in the forest as a career.

“The third motivation to attend and finish college was finding out that I could work outside in the forest as a career.” — Don, ’78

The best thing about my college experience was the ability to be part of several communities during my time at UW. My first community was the UW EOP Indian Program with Don Matt and Arla Conway. They provided a connection to the EOP program opportunities with remedial classes and tutor services along with the small Native community at UW in the 1970’s.

My second community involved the School of Forestry and summer programs. I started working at the Seattle Arboretum during the summer of 1973 with the Director Joe Witt and that experience led to my next summer job. I started living and working at the Seattle Watershed in North Bend, Washington as a “Fire Guard” during the summers of 1974-1977. I lived and worked with a crew of eight other students that helped set up timber sales, measured trees for the 10-year forest inventory, designed forest roads and recorded weather station data manually. The forestry school had a family style of community where Professor Dave Scott would invite his students to a dinner at his home to share food and stories. Dr. Scott was the first professor to mention the great opportunities of Indian forests to me. The forestry school would also host the Garb Day at Pack Forest near Eatonville, Washington where the students participated in logging competitions along with more stories and food. Our forest engineering senior class capstone project was to set up timber sales for the Washington State Department of Natural Resource on the Olympic Peninsula where we lived in the State’s fire crew quarters in Forks, Washington for the Spring 1978 quarter.

My third community was the UW Rugby Club from 1975-1978. My first experience watching rugby was my first game up in Vancouver, BC. My position was in the second row of the “scrum” and I spent 80 minutes in a large shoving match with my mates against other mates from Maple Ridge. After the game we would spend the next 80 minutes drinking, eating and singing with the opposing team who then became our rugby brothers. The UW Rugby Club hosted an annual Rugby Mudball Tournament each spring on the fields between Husky Stadium and the Montlake Parking lots. I remember working on the program committee and securing sponsors from the local bars and restaurants near the area. I was happy to find another Native on the team, John Spence from the Gros Ventre Tribe and he also graduated from the local Highline High School. Our team photo and John’s extraordinary autobiography is in his book, “Crazy Wolf: A Half Breed Story.”

My forestry, rugby community and other drinking friends did expose my alcohol problem that led to a night in jail, a DUI and poor grades that led to academic probation in 1976. My Native community provided life-changing support through one of my first UW connections, Arla Conway. She helped me by introducing me to new sober friends in the Native community and my life started to turn around in 1977 and 1978. I ended up on the Dean’s List with a 3.77 GPA for my last quarter at UW.

My years as first-gen student at UW did provide me with what I called Cayuse Justice: What Goes Around Comes Around. 

Learning as I went, I sought various resources to support my academic journey as a first-generation college student. My experiences as a first-generation college student shaped my values of learning, growth, and community, which led to the start of my career working at various nonprofits and pursuing a Masters degree in Nonprofit Leadership.

Being a first-generation graduate is a huge privilege and accomplishment. Honoring those who came before me and planted the seeds which allowed me to be where I am today. I am part of a legacy for future generations to be curious and achieve goals that they didn’t know were possible.

I would share with current and future first-generation students that you are exactly where you need to be. You are here for a reason and even if it feels unclear to push through and seek support. Push through the barriers, hardships, and imposter syndrome. There are so many resources out there to support you, take the initiative to seek them out. Find your community of support early on and lean on each other. You are resilient and I’ll be rooting for you on the sidelines!

During that journey, my brother suffered a deep abrasion on his head. The bleeding would not subside, and after several days, he was hospitalized at Seattle Children’s Hospital. This is how we learned that my brother had hemophilia, a discovery that would eventually inspire my interest in working with children and families coping with medical issues.

These life experiences are reflected in my decision to study pediatric psychology. My parents’ perspectives about the past guided every aspect of my upbringing and taught me the importance of hard work and determination. They showed me how to see opportunity in adversity, a mindset that continues to propel me forward. My parents valued education and hard work and instilled values of resilience and fortitude as I grew up a refugee in the United States. As the first woman in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree and the first person in my family to receive a doctorate, I am deeply tied through my drive for success to the history that brought me here after a fateful day 48 years ago.

I got a part-time job on campus right away to help pay for tuition, and it ended up being the best decision for my future. My supervisor and future mentor/friend was a huge support. She taught me the term “first-generation college student,” and helped introduce me to opportunities, resources, and even other students & members of the UW community. I felt very uplifted by her, and many other faculty and staff on my journey, so much so that when one of my professors approached me about the idea of attending a UW graduate program, my family and I were ecstatic!

My education at UW not only helped me to find an amazing job in a field and location that I’m passionate towards, but it also connected me to so many wonderful people who changed my life for the better! They even led to some really cool achievements, like being named one of the Husky 100 students in 2020! I am so proud to be a Husky, and to continue working with and giving back to the UW community through my current role as a Communications & Events Specialist for the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences at the UW Bothell campus.

My advice to first-generation students is to find your networks! For me, it was helpful to connect with individuals and find mentors through work and classes, who then were able to introduce me to larger groups and other people with similar backgrounds to myself. Everyone I’ve met at UW has been passionate towards student success, and it’s a mission that I look forward to building upon as a professional.

In my culture, women are not expected to go to college. Especially when I was younger, the life path I was supposed to follow was to get married and be a housewife. But my dad never imposed such a limited view of my future. Ever since I was a young child, he encouraged me to focus on school and to have good grades. He and my aunt told me how poor their families were and how they always wanted to pursue higher education but were unable to because their families could not afford to send them to school beyond junior high.

The best thing about my college experience is that it opened my eyes to the world around me. It was because of my college education that I got to learn about human rights, migration, women’s fight for equity, courts and the legal field. It was because of my undergrad education that I decided to become a public interest lawyer.

The people who supported me through my undergrad career were my community college professors and academic counselors. There were professors along the way that made a huge impact on my life. Also, my now husband too. His support while I was in undergrad helped me continue working toward graduation. At times when I felt I was about to quit school because it was too much, he would encourage me to keep going.

If I were able to talk to my younger self, there would be so many things I would want to tell myself. I would tell myself to not listen to the negative things other people said. For example, a coworker once told me, I had been accepted to UW only because of affirmative action. Hearing those things was so hurtful and damaging. I would tell my younger self, that I was able to get as far as I had gotten because of the hard work I had put into everything. I would also tell my younger self to join student organizations, to not be afraid to reach out to professors, and to not be afraid to express my opinions.

In 2020, I lived a unique first-generation experience: I graduated with a master’s in Education Policy via Zoom! Today, I continue to work for the UW, doing the things that I love the most: research, analyzing data, and creating educational policies that support equitable opportunities for the diverse early learners and educators of our state and nation.

I am humbled and thankful for my Husky experience because it allowed me to gain the things I am most thankful for: the opportunity to be a first-generation college graduate, a dorm roommate who became my best friend, friendships from around the world, colleagues who turned into friends and mentors, peers who share similar interests in education and innovative research, and a quality education that led to my professional career at UW.

Most importantly, the UW helped me remain a resilient individual and learner. Being a Husky means being a member of a community that embraces and supports my individuality and education. I am proud to say that my post-secondary education, career, and adult life have all involved the UW, and for that I am entirely grateful. I will continue working so that students, including first-generation students, can pursue their own educational opportunities, better yet, their own Husky experience.

If I could go back to 2010, I would say to my college self, “Those goals you have, those are only the beginning. You’ll cross goals off your list, re-shape some, and create new ones — some even bigger ones and others yet unthought of.”

So back I came, with my own resources, and put myself through undergrad and then law school. But if I hadn’t both been pushed in the first place, resisted, and then been allowed to come back I never would have reached the success I did. I believe anyone can experience struggles and overcome them to be the stronger for it. And college was key to that experience for me.

The best advice I could give my college self, or anyone in that role, is that it gets easier, and it’s worth it. You will hit your stride and find your way. And there is no more valuable thing you could have in the world than that education when you get to the end.

I remained a Husky for two different graduate programs because I knew that UW had great programs I was still interested in exploring. I went on to receive two master’s degrees within 3 years after I finished my bachelors.

Looking back on my journey, I will say there were many nights where I questioned why I was working so hard, and I had lots of thoughts of quitting. I continued to push myself, even when balancing school and work was hard, because I not only wanted to continue to make my family proud, but I also wanted to make myself proud too.

Although growing up, I have been taught to work hard in school, it was hard to actually be proud of my own accomplishments. Because I had the momentum and I was still interested in other programs, I knew that obtaining more than one degree would be a testament to the hard work I put in. I know that my family is happy with what I have accomplished because they share those sentiments with me, but I am equally proud of myself for not giving up and pushing my own boundaries of what hard work means to me.

I wanted to attend college to not only unlock more doors and opportunities for my future, but also to prove to myself and my family that I could do whatever I set my heart and mind on. There were many doubts and obstacles I faced along the way. Some factors included being the first in my family to complete college applications and apply for FAFSA and scholarships. I also had to share a room with my parents and my brother for much of my childhood up until college. I witnessed all of the late nights and early mornings my parents went to work. They would pick up extra shifts just to make sure there was food on the table. My main motivation was to make sure their hard work was repaid with my completion of a college degree.

The best thing about college was the wide array of activities and events on campus. It seemed like there was always something going on, and it made the campus feel very warm and welcoming. I loved being a part of student organizations and meeting other students with similar experiences. I also loved the opportunities to learn about other cultures and diverse perspectives. It was very easy for me to feel like I belonged on campus.

I was involved in the UW Upward Bound program during high school, which allowed me to make connections with advisors and counselors through the Office of Minority Affairs and Diversity. They were a big part of my success as a First Generation college student.

If I could give words of advice to my college self, I would remind myself not to work too hard and forget to make time to relax and play. I balanced internships, sorority activities, homework and class projects, and home responsibilities all throughout my four years at UW. Those four years really do fly by, so make sure to make the most of your time there!

Even though I experienced academic trauma and was rejected from my major at first, this very same community lifted me up and reminded me that I was capable of graduating still. I wish I had reminded myself of my capability throughout my four years in school which would be my biggest piece of advice for all first-gens.

In my four years, I was fortunate enough to have had great mentors that kept me in my lane as I paved the way to graduation. There were several moments where I felt like quitting but I knew I was setting the example for future generations. Through all my successes and failures, I realized everything unfolded as it should which was the best part of my college experience because it made me who I am. 

My mom was studying political science but left once she married and soon had her first child. My parents are both intelligent and hard-working individuals who have supported me in innumerable ways. They paved the way for me to pursue my aspirations including higher education.

As a commuter student I found homes on campus: working in the HUB as a barista and as a grad student in special education south campus became my stomping grounds. One of my greatest college experiences was the opportunity to study abroad spring quarter of my junior year. This was an immersive experience into other countries and cultures that helped shape me into a student and citizen of the larger world.

We have now come full circle as our oldest son begins his college journey at UW this year as a freshman. As he forges his own path, he has the support and love of those who came before.

The UW was my dream college, but staying in California meant that I could take advantage of resident rates (and the veterans benefits my father earned through military service for himself and his descendants.) I always intended to get a master’s, as it is needed in my field (libraries) if you want to advance anywhere. But it wasn’t until my husband encouraged me to apply to grad schools that I decided it was time; even then, I wasn’t going to apply to the UW. Ranked #2 in the US for my intended degree, I thought there was no way I was going to get in. My GPA from CSUS was less than the best and, even with 15 or so years of experience… I thought for sure the UW would reject me. The day I got accepted into the graduate school at the University of Washington is still one of the happiest days of my life — so happy, in fact, that I made my husband read the acceptance letter to me over and over to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.

Attending an online master’s program isn’t easy. Connecting with other students, with faculty and staff, is as challenging as making sure you are self-disciplined enough to stay on top of assignments, lectures, weekly response posts, readings, and everything else that comes with schooling. Attending an online master’s program in the midst of a worldwide pandemic is even more challenging — people getting sick, hospitalized, or even dying puts things into a new perspective. The support system that was built for us, though, held strong. Faculty and staff checked in on us regarding our stress levels, were even more flexible when it came to assignments, and were probably as freaked out as the rest of us. Those long, stressful days linger with many of us — but surviving and even thriving demonstrates that together we can persevere.

If I could offer advice to my younger self, I’d say: don’t wait as long to apply. Be kind to yourself. Grant yourself the grace and space to mess up. Thank your husband and other family members a whole lot more for putting up with you. Take two nights for yourself to just be — one night a week for “family night” isn’t enough. And, more than anything, remember that you are boundless. Just like your university.

I went to a college preparatory Catholic high school and my parents worked hard to send us to that school — the one thing is I fell through the cracks. No one talked to me about a 4-year institution. After graduation I sent them a note letting them know that I made it and that the credit was all mine. I also wanted to ensure that didn’t happen to another student.

The best thing about my experience at UW was UW football on Saturdays, OMA and joining a Latina-based sorority. Those same organizations were my support systems along with Terry Hilliard West, Johnella Butler, Al Black, John Walter and Ron Milus to name a few.

The advice I would give my college self is, “You earned this, all of your hard work comes to this, a double major at the University of Washington. You are a Dawg for life.”

After receiving my Associate of the Arts Degree from Seattle Central I attended one semester at Cornish College of the Arts. Cornish was not generous about taking my transfer credits, and Cornish was also a VERY expensive private school. I was taking out Pell Grant loans to pay my way. Transferring to the UW was one of my BEST life decisions: I was a Husky Promise Student. A Husky Promise Student has low-income parents, and has to maintain a certain GPA. I never had to take out another loan, the UW was generous about my transfer credits, and I had so much more freedom.

One of the highlights of my time at the UW was studying abroad in Rome. I will never forget it! It gave me the confidence to travel abroad after college to Iceland and Germany and more. Next week I travel to Ireland for a work trip!

Today, I can say I have worked for some of the world’s largest global employers, such as Amazon, T-Mobile, Zillow, and DocuSign. I have traveled to 52 countries and my adult children are college graduates/students themselves. We have broken those chains of poverty!!!

What was the best thing about your college experience?

Connection within a community of learners was so important to me. Not only did I learn a lot from each of the professors, but I made lifelong friendships with other non-traditional college students during the process. I learned how to critically think beyond what was presented in front of me. I understood more about the complexities of DE&I and other factors like environmental sciences impacting our foods, medications and global climate. I will never forget my time at the University of Washington. I still maintain a strong sense of identity as a Washington Husky!

Who did you turn to when you needed support?

Thankfully, I had an amazing mentor that I had met during my college days. Today, several years later, he is like a father to me. In addition to that, many of the professors were amazing guides, partners, and challenged me to think beyond the norm. I use study halls, tutors, and accessed peer learners to discuss thought provoking homework assignments. Tapping into the global learning community that the University of Washington offered allowed for me to grow beyond my expectations.

What advice would you give your college self?

Connect even more. Go to those events, follow up on suggested leads, keep in touch with professors and peers students over the years. Never forget where you come from. Your story is unique and interesting. The one thing no one can ever take away from you, is education. Give it your all!

A member of the Jackson School shared information about the Ellison Center, REECAS major, and study abroad opportunities in our Russian 203 class. While studying abroad in St. Petersburg, Russia, I knew I wanted to return to the University of Washington for graduate school to study security in the region. With the help of an incredible committee, I published my master’s thesis on the integration of cyber tools in Russian information operations in 2015.

For me, being a first-generation graduate carries an immense sense of pride and responsibility. I am proud of my accomplishments, the hardships I overcame, and the mistakes I learned from. I can confidently say I would not be where I am today without my education and the support I received from my family, friends, and everyone at the University of Washington. I feel a sense of duty to pay it forward and help others achieve their college dreams.

I was a transfer student from a community college and I felt like I missed out on a lot from not having my first two years on campus. I now try to give back to other Husky undergrads by participating regularly in the Huskies at Work program.

Future advice? Don’t work a 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. 911-Dispatch shift and expect to be fresh for an art history class that starts at 9 a.m. Trust me, it just doesn’t work!

Lastly, as a father, I look forward to trying to instill some of the same educational values in my own children, as well as those who I help inspire through youth coaching and other mentorship opportunities. I am also thankful to my parents who helped start a college savings program that allowed me to pursue my education. As a Chief of Police, I work with my executive staff and my officers to encourage them to follow their educational goals to help provide for a better future for the profession.

“I was really intimidated by the size of Seattle,” Smith says, “and I was having second thoughts about whether I’d be able to make it through medical school.” Nervous and feeling out of place, he skipped the first two days of class. On the third day, he gathered his courage and went to see Richard Blandell, the dean of admissions.

“I told him I was completely overwhelmed, and he understood,” Smith says. Still, Blandell told him, seeing as he’d already paid for tuition and books, Smith should at least stick around for the quarter. Then, to make sure Smith didn’t miss a third day, Blandell walked him to class and introduced him to his new classmates. Soon enough, Smith had settled in at school and never looked back. Four years later, on graduation day, Smith saw the kindly dean again. “He came up and congratulated me personally,” says Smith. “He remembered me all that time.”

Meanwhile, Smith had found the specialty to which he would devote his career: OB/GYN. While an intern at St. Luke’s Rehabilitation Institute in Spokane, he met his wife, Christi, an OB nurse. Drafted during the Korean War, Smith later became a resident at Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. After being discharged from the Army, Smith returned to Spokane and practiced for 26 years. Now retired, he teaches reproductive health classes at the Women’s Hearth shelter in Spokane. It all might never have happened without a bit of help at a pivotal moment, and Smith knew he wanted to pay it forward.

His own tuition had been covered by a program in Montana, and Smith counted himself fortunate that he was able to graduate debt-free — but he realized that many of today’s students face significant debt in medical school. That’s why he and his family created the Gilbert A. Smith, M.D., Family Scholarship for medical students. “Even undergraduate school can be prohibitively expensive,” says Smith. “It’s my hope to help get students through a month or two of just surviving at school.”

Today, Smith still remembers Blandell fondly as the mentor who started him on his path. “If I hadn’t talked to him that day, I probably would have quit,” he says. “But he saw something in me. He was a wonderful person.”

I earned my Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication with double minors in Leadership and Public Policy. Additionally, I completed the Husky Leadership Certificate program, which provided me with invaluable opportunities to hone my leadership skills and apply them to real-world challenges. This achievement wasn’t just about earning a degree — it was about creating a future of stability and opportunity for myself, all while paving the way for those who will follow in my footsteps. Each step I took was not only a step towards my own future but a stride towards creating new opportunities for my family and my community.

The motivation to go to college stemmed from a combination of personal aspirations and external influences. My early involvement with community-based organizations and advocacy efforts lit a fire within me. I was driven by a desire to transform my own life and contribute meaningfully to my community. Running Start played a pivotal role in preparing me for this path. Starting at 16, it provided a head start and a practical glimpse into college life, equipping me with the skills and confidence needed for a successful transition. By the time I was 18, I had already graduated from Clark College with my Associate in Arts (AA), which laid a strong foundation for my academic journey. The program showed me that higher education was not just a possibility but an achievable reality.

The best part of my college experience was the opportunity to engage in impactful internships that solidified my passion and career direction. My time at AARP was particularly transformative. It ignited my passion for working with older adults and taught me invaluable lessons about community engagement and advocacy. These internships were some of the most rewarding aspects of my college journey, providing me with practical experience and a deeper understanding of my field. They helped me to see the real-world impact of my work and confirmed my commitment to making a difference.

When I faced challenges, my support system was my anchor. My family, especially my mother, and my friends were indispensable. They were always there to lend a listening ear and offer encouragement when things got tough. I remember moments when giving up felt like the easier option, but their unwavering support and belief in me gave me the strength to persevere. Their motivation was a crucial factor in helping me cross the finish line and achieve my goals.

Looking back, I would tell my college self to embrace solitude when needed and to not be afraid of doing things alone. College life is not just about academics; it’s also about exploring new experiences and making the most of student life. Attending pop-up events, football games, and other activities enriched my college experience and helped me connect with others. I would also advise myself to venture beyond Seattle, exploring new places and broadening my horizons. These experiences are integral to personal growth and should be embraced fully.

In conclusion, being a first-generation college student has been a journey of overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities. The support from my family, the preparation from Running Start, and the enriching experiences through internships have all contributed to a meaningful and fulfilling college experience. My journey has been shaped by resilience, support, and a deep commitment to my goals, and I carry these lessons forward as I continue to forge my path.

I started classes at South Seattle College in Winter Quarter 2011. I was a few years older than your typical college freshman, and bewildered by the whole process. I didn’t consider the fact that I was a first generation student until I applied to TRiO.

I continued working several part-time jobs. There were many days where I had to choose between commuting costs and meals, I wasn’t sure if I was cut out to transfer. I secured a stable part-time job at the college I attended and waited a year to apply to transfer. I was shocked when I was accepted to the University of Washington, and completely overwhelmed.

Where would I live? How would I get to work? What would my teachers be like? I felt like a small fish in a big, big pond.

My colleague and friend gave me a piece of advice; he told me “Find your niche, find your people.”

I thought to myself, it’s easier said than done especially when I was an older transfer student. But I trusted his advice and sought opportunities to get involved on campus, despite how awkward it felt at first.

By the next quarter, I was part of a student committee and had made friends across campus. Having friends on campus and feeling that I was contributing to something bigger than myself made a difference during difficult times. I am grateful to have been able to share my accomplishments, meals and memories with life-long friends.

One of my favorite memories is walking across campus with a group of my friends late at night, after a full day of committee events and meetings.

I feel that my friend and colleague’s advice is as relevant today as it was in 2013. If I were to give my former self some advice, it would be this: He’s right, find your people, find your niche. Find something on campus that resonates with you and connects you to a community.

Whenever I struggled, I was able to lean on my fellow Huskies, many of whom were also first-generation college students.

I made several friends in my classes in the Communications department, and also made several friends that I depended on for military mentorship in the ROTC programs (as it was my goal to commission through the Army’s Officer Candidate School after graduating). The friends I made are people that I now consider life-long friends, and I think they were the best part of my college experience.

Looking back, I would tell my college self that it’ll be okay! I achieved everything I wanted and more. I commissioned as one of the youngest US Army officers to come out of OCS, and I am still pushing boundaries out here. Classes are hard, growing up is hard, navigating new areas of life is hard, but it was all so worth it in the end.

Now that I have completed my four year degree from the UW, I feel immensely proud of myself but also at the same time too privileged. Students from around the world dream of heading to America for higher education, and I out of everybody got the opportunity to study at this prestigious university which is a blessing.

The advice I would give to my college self would be, “Don’t be discouraged by everybody around you who you think are doing better than you in terms of their major, grades, coursework etc. After college, there are even greater learnings that lie ahead of you. You should focus on what you are good at in the given moment, and leave everything else for later.”

At UW Bothell, the day I joined Husky Herald (College Newspaper), I was so thrilled to began writing for them. My Editor-in-Chief Ashley Creech pointed out that the opportunities are endless here and we are always looking for contributors. I began writing on campus events and later on developed a unique perspective on writing which shaped my abilities to think differently. There are countless opportunities that I didn’t go for during my four years, but I am grateful for the ones that I took a shot at.

One summer, I tried picking strawberries to earn money, and found that was a lot of work for not much return. I watched how our paperboy delivered ours and neighbor’s newspapers, he made it look easy. I was too young to have my own paper route. I found substituting part time for a couple of years was a good alternative, as I got a call whenever it rained, which was frequent.

My diligence as a paperboy paid off, as I had my own Daily Olympian route from 1955-1959, with 100 customers. It also opened other doors working for the newspaper during high school in the circulation department, and other departments to fill in for vacations. This work experience gave me the funds to make college possible. Olympia was still considered a small town. Any concerns I had about going away to college I kept to myself. So many unknowns lay in my future.

An aunt and uncle living in Seattle offered that I could live with them and attend the University of Washington. That seemed like a workable transition. I was not in a position for a scholarship, nor did I explore any other colleges. What should I study? My first thought was Architecture. Speaking with a course counselor at the U of W, left me discouraged. Maybe I didn’t show enough passion for that profession and the unknowns got larger.

One unlikely exposure was a required class — ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corp). At that time, ROTC was a compulsory course for the first two years at all land grant colleges. At the University of Washington, I chose Air Force ROTC (Detachment 910) over the Army and Navy programs. Flying seemed interesting, probably more “intriguing” as I had never been in an airplane. I selected business as my course of study.

My uncle Andy owned an acoustical contracting company in Seattle. I must have expressed some doubt about whether or not I could make it through college. He offered me a backup plan — where I could also learn the acoustical trade in case college didn’t work out for me. There were work opportunities while going to school, and I gained the skills of installing acoustical tile ceilings. One of the most challenging and rewarding was the remodel of the Ice Arena at the Seattle World’s Fair — a dropped ceiling varying between 10’–20′ from the old interior ceiling, and each tile was a domed shell 4’x4′ and placed into the supporting grid.

My work experience, alongside and observing other trade jobs, played a key role in why I wanted a college education. Yes, one could earn a living in these trades, but I didn’t want to do any of these jobs for the rest of my life.

“Yes, one could earn a living in these trades, but I didn’t want to do any of these jobs for the rest of my life.” — James, ’64

During my sophomore year in college, there were many firsts. My first car. No longer did I have to walk or ride the bus from near Green Lake to the U of W. Another first: a Fraternity showed interest in me — I joined — Sigma Phi Epsilon. During my senior year, I was vice president of this 85-man line-in house.

My experience in ROTC shined brighter. The instructors in Detachment 910 showed interest in me. My discipline from delivering newspapers and family life made the military structure seem easy. I accepted it and excelled.

The real carrot for me was during Advanced ROTC and a program called FIP (Flight Indoctrination Program). I was blessed to be physically qualified to fly. I obtained my FAA Private Pilot’s License through this program flying out of the Renton Airport. Once I took that step toward flying, the confidence I gained reinforced my future career path towards flying.

I graduated University of Washington (1964). My degree was in business — and I graduated as a Distinguished Military Graduate and was commissioned as a 2Lt in the U.S. Air Force. That ceremony involved my mother and my aunt each pinning the gold bar rank insignia on the shoulders of my uniform. Three weeks later, I entered the Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training Program.

In 1967, after returning from a combat tour in Vietnam, The Daily Olympian newspaper had a full-page tribute for National Newspaperboy Day. This was a salute to their 171 Junior Dealers. They featured me as one of their Junior Dealers (1955-1959), who saved his earnings and paid his college tuition, and had recent combat tour accomplishments as a 1Lt in the U.S. Air Force.

We no longer have newspaper boys as we knew then… but I’m grateful for what I was able to accomplish by delivering papers, and the path for this first-generation college student, an opportunity that my parents and grandparents didn’t have.

My education at the University of Washington and the motivation from my life experiences opened doors of opportunity. From one who entered college, and hadn’t yet experienced flight in an airplane, and chose flying as a career. I am grateful for my 26 years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force, and a follow-on career flying for FedEx.

I think I helped open the door to what was once seen as an impossibility in my family. And I am so glad UW is a part of that story.

College was always the goal for my life from a very young age. I was well aware of the privilege that exists for those with a college education. And the fact that not too far in the distant history of our country I would have been denied access to my dream of a college degree. That drove me and continues to drive me to complete the full scope of higher education. Earning every degree in my lifetime. I am currently working on my doctorate.

The best thing about my college experience thus far was moving away from my family and attending Eastern Washington University for the first three years of college. It forced me to step outside what I was familiar with and grow up. I needed it. And I came back home ready to give it all I had. Working full time while wrapping up my education at UW! My dream school and my proudest achievement academically to date. Getting my acceptance letter after the Comprehensive Entrance Exam was the second highlight of my career. I always wanted to attend the UW and I was so excited to be a Husky. Finally, getting my Lifetime Alumni card in the mail was my third highlight, LOL. I have a lot, I love education and learning. But having that card means I accomplished something and am recognized for that and it means the world to me.

For support I turned mostly to my family just for encouragement. No one can complete the journey for you, so you have to find the strength to get through hard challenges. I also have a strong faith in God and I know he’ll never bring me to something that he hasn’t already equipped me to get through it.

What advice would I give to my college self? Stay focused, don’t listen to the people that told you that you can’t complete the program in the timeline you’ve set for yourself. I would say it gets easier, just keep pushing through. All the hard work is worth it in the end. And we were built to do hard things, nothing is impossible and you were born to be great!

Going to college was a cultural expectation… So the 70’s were my college /university decade… I worked at the lumbermill my dad was working at during summers mostly to earn money for school, living at home when not in a dorm… First it was Tacoma Community College, got most of the general stuff for distributions out of the way… got some art training in that time… was thinking of Botany and drawing could have been useful tool… got the social sciences out of the way there. Got my Associate of Arts and Science degree done on time… Got accepted to University of Washington in Fall 1973, lived in the top floor of the Terry Hall dorm…. Why did I not visit Vietnam at this time… the draft lottery got classified as 1-H (don’t even go for a physical) my number was so high it was not a worry for me.

So first quarter I had to wait for the higher level biology that biology/botany/medical students were required to take… the permission to take it was something I did not know about until registering for classes, so got a Science Fiction class (writing class) and a Genetics 451 class, that did not require the biology series first… got an Ace in that class, it was an interest before university… I did in the following 2 quarters double up a couple of the required Bio 210/211/212 so I did get that done in first year… I had figured to finish in 3 years at UW and get a good balance of science, my Math was done at TCC to beyond requirements.

So things like Geology, Atmospheric Sciences were among the non-Botany classes when I had space, I did not do any business or Art classes at UW… complications in earning money happened the summer before my 3rd year…. strike at lumbermill after I got on for one day, we are a union family… so no work that summer… I don’t consider myself a very good job hunter, but my expenses were low… no car, no girlfriend so savings got me to Winter ’76 when I got my BS in Botany end of Winter quarter instead of spring… I did have to borrow $200 from my parents and work in the dorm dining room as a server for less than minimum wage ($2/ hour was my wage)… After that little setback… I decided to work a year and a half to pay back parents and save money for 2 more years… did that okay with the lumbermill, actually got enough time to apply to my pension plan.

Started my 2 more years as a 5th year student, decide to change to Zoology major to get classes I wanted, I was into the Mycology classes, with my flexibility of what I could take I could have added a BA in Zoology with 5 more credits in a vertebrate class, but was not into the dissection of vertebrates, I had been disjointing whole chicken for cooking way before that… I had a pretty good idea about analogous structures in vertebrates… study of bugs was more useful for a Botanist… in that extra 2 years I even took a basic physics class for non-majors the 2 quarter version… it did not require calculus but I had that anyway, so when the professor was trying to fill in the math I had that anyway…

“The last years were the best ones… I did not have too work and do school at same time…” — Elton, ’76

The last years were the best ones… I even hosted a D&D game in my last two quarters in the dorm… I did not have too work and do school at same time… I finished in Spring of 1979 with what I wanted… My Mycology professor retired from teaching in ’79 also… was good with my BS from ’76 plus two years. Got what I wanted with no outstanding debt from schooling… the Golden Years for students I guess.

I had family support during that time getting to TCC for two years was getting dropped off by my dad on his way to work… and the walk home was two miles… found about 150 agates in the same stretch of road gravel plus a few coins and a truck driver paid me a buck for helping him get a nut/bolt loosened to change valve for switching fuel tanks… I did get more social in the dorm but didn’t having much play money… I have the memory of helping to paint the mural that was done in Rainer House… did the bushes… the mural is gone… the lead artist died… drugs… the dorm is gone… I did not see the Huskies play… was not into it much. I think most of my professors are dead by now… I did have a crush on a nice girl, but other things started happening in life. I did get hired by another lumbermill on the same pension plan… that I am living on now…

Advice… to people going school after high school… Community Colleges are a good place to consider what path you really want… my younger brother did a scholarship to MIT and did the loan route, he got his double degrees in engineering and finance… got a good job from it… for me Botany became more of a hobby… the lumbermill paid better than ‘grain inspector.’ One of my sisters did the business route and got a job managing… another sister did army between wars… later did schooling in programing and later from a secretary job became a creator and manager of an IT department for a company… My littlest sister in time after doing bartending got trained as an Aerospace Assembly Mechanic when Boeing was doing the training… She did work on most of the 747 line of planes, you may have flown on a plane she worked on… I have niece that did university and is working in Geology and another that trained as a dental assistant… working… and so on… our paths in life can be very different, maybe my going to University and my brother going also has set expectations for my parents’ grand- and great-grandkids to attend school in some form beyond the basic high school… I did not need my degrees for work, but I have found it valuable to have done it… it even allows me to understand the way a pandemic would progress a bit better than average that don’t have the biological training… learning is valuable…

To keep costs down consider the Community Colleges… consider transferring to a University if they offer what you need… pick the brains of any advisors… you can find out about costs and how you can get what you want… but also once you find out what need… like that permission for a bottleneck class… they may exist in other majors… find out what programs will accept for transfer credits… most of mine applied, my PE credits at TCC was required for the TCC degree but not for the UW degree… know what you need several years out… can you cut your expenses to a minimum? What kind of job can you get to pay before going… while going… and after you get what you want… after the last lumbermill I worked for shut down I got retraining grant from feds… got my certification, but the demand for the job I retrained for, the training center put on so many training slots… the job market got flooded… that retraining did not get me a job before I retired. That whole job market dance is a whole different skill to be aware of… and social media hazards…