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Valentina Rojas Abreu ’24 knows the experience of a first generation student better than most. Not only is she one herself, but she’s been helping cultivate a supportive network as President of the First Generation Program.

Read on to hear her perspective on the distinct challenges and triumphs that define the first generation student experience.

Why did you choose ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø?

I’d heard great things all through high school about how many connections ÌÒñ«ÉçÇø has to different companies and programs. I liked that I could commute and that there was a New York City Campus I could take advantage of if I wanted to.

What are some of the challenges of being a first generation student?

A lot of us first generation students are so independent because we don't have that safety net. Not that we don't have people to depend on, but at least on an academic standpoint, you are on your own.

What are some of the hidden ‘super powers’ of being a first generation student?

As a first generation student, I ended up being very independent. I'm the firstborn in my family. So I don't have an older sibling to ask ‘how did you do this’ or ‘what is FASFA?’ I feel like a lot of our students, including myself, feel like school is a bit easier now because I've been doing everything by myself. Having to figure things out on your own can help students reach for the stars. They know how to opportunities or have higher aspirations because they know they’ve always had to.

What do you want fellow first generation students to know?

Some people don’t even realize they’re a first generation student. Even if your parents received an associate degree rather than a four-year degree, or your siblings have gone to college, you're still considered a first generation student.

I try to encourage students in the First Generation Program in the same way I was encouraged.