First-generation college students at Northern Arizona University (NAU) are sharing their experiences and insights as part of the lead-up to First-Generation College Celebration Day on Nov. 8. Anahi Gonzales and Destinee King discussed their journeys and the challenges they faced while navigating higher education without the guidance of family members who had attended college.
Challenges for First-Generation Students
Gonzales recalls the overwhelming experience of filling out the FAFSA with her parents, who had not attended college themselves. This lack of familiarity is a common hurdle for many first-generation students, who often find themselves without the necessary support to understand the process.
Though the Gonzales family eventually figured out the financial aid process, Anahi’s journey continued at NAU, where she graduated with a degree in social work and is now pursuing a master’s degree.
Support Systems at NAU
King, who hails from Maricopa, benefited from guidance in her college application process, including assistance from her school counselor. After applying to multiple schools, she chose NAU after receiving a partial scholarship and a Pell grant, needing additional financial support to cover her education costs.
Both students participated in programs like Successful Transition and Academic Readiness (STAR) and TRIO Student Support Services, which provided peer mentoring. King emphasized the importance of these programs in helping her connect with resources and build friendships during her initial year at college. She later became a mentor herself, reflecting on how these experiences influenced her career path in higher education.
Career Development and Community Engagement
Gonzales also credited NAU’s Career Development services with helping her navigate the professional landscape, a challenge compounded by her parents’ non-professional backgrounds. Her role as a community assistant allowed her to overcome financial barriers that could have hindered her education.
King has since earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from NAU, becoming actively involved in campus life and student affairs. She encourages first-generation students to seek support and build connections, reinforcing that they belong in higher education.
Empowering Future Generations
As Gonzales reflects on her undergraduate career, she emphasizes the importance of community among first-generation students. She encourages new students to engage fully with their college experience.
The stories of Gonzales and King highlight the unique challenges and triumphs faced by first-generation students, as well as the importance of mentorship and community support in achieving academic success.
Source: Northern Arizona University
