Many first-generation college students face several challenges when it comes to earning their college degree. As a first-generation college student, my first obstacle was the lack of knowledge in the process of applying to college and all the steps that it involves. That included everything from learning about financial aid to dealing with the pressure from family members who viewed my entrance to college as a break from the family system. Families can add an unnecessary amount of pressure on first-generation students by viewing them as either their savior or the person who will bring honor to the family.
When I first came to college, my family showed an enormous amount of support. However, they also added pressure on me to become the savior of the family, the person who broke the cycle, and the person who would help the rest of the family break the cycle.
There is also the lack of support from parents who lack the knowledge of the amount of time and resources that students require to succeed in college. Even if I try to educate my parents, there are a lot of things they do not understand. I have to personally deal with all the financial issues, registering for classes, studying, and motivating myself to succeed. Many parents do not understand the amount of effort and time required for each class and the process to succeed academically.
A lot of first-generation students lack resources, especially financial ones. These are the main and ongoing challenges for first-generation students. The pressure to succeed also increases for a great percentage of first-generation students who come from minorities that lack the knowledge and financial resources to educate themselves.
Learning how to fill out the FAFSA form became a challenge that I had to endure alone because no one in my family knew anything about it, and there were not a lot of programs that taught me how to do it properly.
The education system can be the main obstacle for first-generation students since it is built in a way that makes it extremely difficult for students to learn about all the resources for college and how to be prepared for college life.
There is a lack of preparedness for first-generation college students that can affect their ability to perform well in school. I experience the constant fear that I am a step behind my classmates because of my lack of knowledge in many aspects of the education process and a college-going culture.
Mental health can become another obstacle for first-generation students. I always feel stressed and anxious, thinking about how to stay afloat in college. The pressure from my parents can become a burden that only adds to the psychological pressure being experienced.
Many first-generation students require extra help from their professors or college staff; however, it can be difficult to come out and ask for help. Sometimes, it can be hard to request assistance without feeling insecure or even embarrassed.
Despite the obstacles that first-generation students face, there are factors that can help them succeed. In my experience, I have been able to receive help from my advisors and friends that have more knowledge and a better experience in college-going culture. Also, the professors at EMU are approachable and give a sense of security and trust that allows me to reach out and ask for help.
