Episode 57: “I’m First, and I’m Proud”
In this episode, Dan interviews three guests, Katie, Mariam, and Kayla, to talk about their first gen identities and their pride that comes with being First Gen.
In this episode you will hear from:
First, we hear from Katie, who is just starting her first semester at Johns Hopkins University as a BME major. Katie was a student in Minds Matter of New York City, a nonprofit college access and attainment organization. She shares her story of how she built up her confidence to reach out to others and make connections as she begins her college journey.
Next, we hear from Mariam, who is a sophomore at the University of Pennsylvania majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics. She speaks about being the first in her family to go to college in the United States and how she is working to overcome spaces where she feels her confidence is tested. Mariam sheds light on how student groups can play an important role in helping you find a sense of belonging in college.
Lastly, we hear from Kayla, who is in graduate school at Xavier University studying to become a Mental Health professional. Kayla shares so much wisdom on the importance of mental health and how it is an ongoing process of healing that we should all embark on.
Overall, it’s important to have faith in yourself, ask for help, and remember that you do belong and that you are capable of greatness!
Resources
On College campuses, look into your Counseling and Psychological Services offices. It’s important to check in even when there isn’t a crisis.
SEO’s mission and purpose is creating a more equitable society by closing the academic and career opportunity gap for motivated young people from underserved and/or underrepresented communities. SEO has programs in NYC & San Francisco as well as in other countries!
Minds Matter has 14 chapters across the nation. Minds Matter connects driven and determined students from low-income families with the people, preparation, and possibilities to succeed in college, create their future, and change the world. See if Minds Matter is in your city here: https://www.mindsmatter.org/chapters/ !
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