Rutgers University–New Brunswick is celebrating First-Generation Week. We would like to recognize some of our staff members who were first-generation students.
Nychey Michel, Coordinator
What does being a first-generation student mean to you?
Being first-generation is an opportunity to break new ground and to blaze trails for younger relatives. Being first-generation is a sense of wonder, uncertainty, boldness, naivety, fortune, hope, moxy, and the gratitude. As a senior, I remember college being an idea, but not an expected destination. What was important was to move forward. Higher education offered me a foundation needed to create change for the betterment of myself and for others.
How has your experience as a first-generation student impacted your professional life?
University was such an unfamiliar environment. The key was to connect to others and to the campus experience. As a first-generation student, that task was challenging to navigate. In becoming a resident assistant, I found a sense of belonging. I also found a major that complimented all the skills and knowledge that I was learning. Residential Life was a place where I thrived, and, thus, Student Affairs became my profession. Student Affairs is developmental in nature, is student-focused, and offers guidance. As a first-generation student, I needed that to succeed. Now, it is my turn to pay that forward.
Why do you think it’s important to recognize and celebrate first-generation students?
The awareness of how to navigate a system as large as Rutgers is not instinctive to all students. The resources and direction that are necessary to stay in college are not the same for all students. While first-generation Rutgers students come to university with gusto, there are many gaps to mind, finances to worry about, skills to become aware of and to hone, problems to solve. Recognizing the achievements of first-generation students is an investment in potential.