What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love meeting new people and helping them throughout their journey! I also love interacting and seeing different perspectives for each students!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being a first-gen student because it's something you have to accomplish on your own, which gives you a great sense of achievement and knowing you did it all on your own.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I get great joy as a mentor when I help people along their path to achievement and personal development. Knowing that I'm improving someone's life by sharing my knowledge and abilities makes me feel fulfilled. It is very satisfying to observe their growth and the problems they overcome. All things considered, my favorite aspect of being a mentor is the chance to encourage and enable others.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-generation student, I cherish the chance to make my own path and leave a legacy of educational achievement for my family. Being the first person in my family to go to college presents some difficulties, but it also builds resilience, determination, and pride. I treasure the opportunity to push past boundaries and exceed expectations, not just for myself but also for the next generation.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because it allows me to make a difference in someone else's life. It's enjoyable to share my knowledge and experiences with my mentees and see them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Being a mentor allows me to make a positive impact on someone else's life, and it is great to know that I can help them progress personally and professionally.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
As a first-generation student, I value having the chance to create opportunities for myself and my family while also creating a new standard for future generations. Being the first in my family to attend college encourages me to work hard and overcome challenges.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
What I truly enjoy about being a mentor is the opportunity to create a safe and empowering space for others to grow, not just academically or professionally, but personally as well. I come from a background where guidance was often hard to find, especially as a first-generation college student and the only female in my family pursuing higher education. Because of this, I deeply understand how valuable it is to have someone who believes in your potential, listens without judgment, and helps you navigate unfamiliar systems.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I deeply value the strength and resilience being first-gen has taught me. I carry the hopes of my family and community, and that drives me to break barriers they never had the chance to overcome. It’s not just about earning a degree—it’s about rewriting a narrative, creating new opportunities, and proving that with courage and persistence, change is possible. This journey has made me more grateful, grounded, and determined to uplift others who walk a similar path.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy the most about a mentor is that I get to support other students by helping them navigate the intricacies of college. Through every step of the way, I love being there to cheer them on as both a mentor and friend.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
To be where I am, it took a lot of sacrifices from myself and the people who always believed in me. I am proud to have made it this far and will continue to go even further.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy about being a mentor is being able to offer the kind of support I wish I had when I first entered college. I understand how overwhelming it can be to face new challenges without guidance, so helping others navigate those moments is incredibly rewarding!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
As a first-generation student, it’s fulfilling to know I’m paving the way for myself and honoring my parents’ sacrifices. Figuring out college on my own has made me more independent and taught me the value of perseverance.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
Being a mentor to me means giving other first-generation students a chance to feel more comfortable on campus.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the opportunity of being enrolled in a university and making the initial steps to better my family’s and my future.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy most about being a mentor for first-generation college students is the opportunity to be a support source for my mentees. I understand how scary and difficult it can be to transition into college life especially if you don’t have any family to help guide you through it. It’s so rewarding to share knowledge that I know can help their journey be smoother.  Ultimately, being part of their journey is such an honor.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being a first-generation college student is the honor that comes with opening a new path for my family. I also value breaking barriers and showing that success can come at any time if you put hard work and dedication into it. Every accomplishment feels more meaningful because I know how hard my parents and I have worked to get me here. Most importantly, I value the chance to create a future that reflects all the sacrifices that helped me be successful.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
 I love being able to guide others and help them to be as successful as possible. I also really enjoy having the opportunity to make a positive difference and impact on someone's college experience. It's also nice to be able to provide a non-judgemental and safe space for students to freely express themselves and ask important questions.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being able to have opportunities that my parents may not have had and being able to set an example for others such as my younger siblings and cousins. I also value being part of a community of like-minded and resilient individuals.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because I get the opportunity to support and guide others as they start on their new journeys. Mentoring also allows me to make a positive contribution to the community by enriching the lives of its members who represent the face of our future.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? 
As a first-generational student I value being able to pave a new way for my family. Navigating this uncharted journey allows me to empower others who may feel uncertain about their potential or place in higher education. Likewise, I can demonstrate to future generations that it's possible to break barriers.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I want to help other people who, like me, may not have had guidance when coming to VCU.  I want my mentees to know that I was once in their position before and that things will work out for them, no matter how overwhelming college might seem.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value what I have learned through guiding my own college experience. There is a certain responsibility that comes with being the first college educated person in your family, and I am proud of all the things that I have accomplished that I have not taken the time to acknowledge or give myself credit for.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I enjoy being a mentor because I love helping others feel supported and happy. I find it meaningful to share my experiences so they can enlighten and encourage, especially for first gen students because I know their struggles. It's incredibly rewarding seeing my mentees grow and accomplish their goals.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the opportunity to break generational barriers and be a role model for younger relatives and others in similar situations. Additionally, I value the opportunity to become a stronger and smarter person by navigating college without a blueprint. I've made so much growth and I'm excited to continue growing, uplifting others, and creating new possibilities for the future.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I enjoy being a mentor because I can learn about new students and help them achieve their goals! I am excited to be able to offer guidance and support to a new ram!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I think being a first-generation student is something to be proud of, as we have overcome barriers to education and pursued our goals through hard experiences!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because I want to use what I have learned from my own college experience to help others. I know how important it is to have a good support system, and I want to be there to help and cheer on my mentees throughout their own college experience.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being first-gen means being open to experiencing many new things and always persevering. You will likely make many mistakes, but that simply means you're learning and improving. It's a difficult, but extremely rewarding experience. You can do it!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I want to pass on advice, knowledge, and wisdom to individuals who are in the same position as I was. I know the feeling of hopelessness, believing that you’re entering this new journey of college alone and have no guidance on what to do to get the most out of your time at university. Through mentorship, I can be a point of contact when questions arise and equip first-generation students with useful tools that have helped me succeed in college. Additionally, this is an opportunity for me to learn from mentees as well. In the end, if they are able to grow and pass on any information I give to them to other first-generation students, it’s a win in my book. I don’t want the cycle of sharing useful information to die, and I want first-generation students to see themselves as achievers.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Many first-generation students had to naturally overcome challenges on their own. It’s the constant resilience despite the obstacles they face that I deeply admire about first-generation students. Remind yourself that you are taking on the world by yourself, and you should be proud of all your accomplishments so far.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I think being a mentor is such an incredible privilege and experience. Overall, I feel that the best part would be watching my mentees succeed in all aspects. Being able to help them and watch them branch out.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Growing up as a first-generation student has enriched crucial abilities within me and instilled a deep-seated resilience. These characteristics have magnified my commitment to education and pushed me toward my career goals. I'm convinced that regardless of the challenges I face, my determination will never falter, and my goals will never seem out of reach.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
What I love about being a mentor is feeling like a source of guidance and support for those who are having or have had similar experiences to me. Getting to know mentees is always fun because I can learn and try new things from/with them!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I embrace the courage and self-acceptance it takes to be a first-gen student. Learning how to adapt, find resources, and help others along the way is something to be proud of!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy making a positive impact and helping guide people through some of the same experiences I encountered my first year. First-gen students possess a strong drive and determination despite the obstacles, and I closely identify with the same motivation.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-generation college student, I value my accomplishments and am proud of paving the way for my family. I am proud that I will be the first one to hopefully complete college. It is a big step with a lot of experiences that I look forward to sharing with others who are the same. 

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy about being a mentor is the amazing relationships I create with my mentees and being able to build our trust so that we can communicate better and reach our goals.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-generation student is the opportunity to break new ground in my family and pursue higher education. It gives me a sense of pride and responsibility to overcome challenges and to demonstrate that anything is possible.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I’m really excited to have the opportunity to mentor and connect with others. I enjoy helping people navigate challenges, especially when they’re facing situations similar to what I’ve gone through. Being able to share my experiences and offer guidance is very rewarding to me, and I’m looking forward to building those connections while supporting and watching mentees as they flourish and grow.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? 
I know how much my mother sacrificed to make this possible. Her dedication and hard work have been a huge inspiration. Beyond that, I value how the community has been incredibly supportive, I feel like I’m surrounded by people who lift each other up. The sense of belonging and encouragement I’ve found here has been invaluable, and it’s made a significant difference in my college experience.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love guiding others through their personal and professional journeys and seeing the growth and success.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being first generation comes with unique challenges but I love that I am able to pave my own path and set an example for future generations.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I most enjoy supporting others through experiences I’ve personally navigated. I share the lessons I've learned through my lived experiences, help other students feel less alone in their first few semesters of college, and celebrate their wins along the way. We first-gen students can forget to celebrate our achievements, big or small, in the fast-paced college life, so as a mentor, I love celebrating my mentees' achievements and seeing them grow in confidence.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? 
I value the resilience and perspective that comes with being a first-gen student. It took me a very long time to learn how to advocate for myself and speak my mind, so I think being a first-gen student pushes you out of your comfort zone and teaches you how to build that resilience. I'm incredibly proud to be the first person in my family to go to college and pursue higher education, while also acknowledging all the sacrifices my family has made for me to get where I am today.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love being able to help lead my mentees down the paths they choose, using my knowledge and experiences. Being able to help ease the transition to college (or a new college) is invaluable.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? (Complete sentences, please)
I love how there's a community within being a first-gen student. There's also a lot of chances to grow and learn who you are when you're in college and I think that's particularly true when you're a first-gen student away from home.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy about being a mentor is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in someone's life, and that means so much to me. I also value being a reliable and supportive presence for my mentee.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being a first-generation student is setting a path for my siblings and my family as a whole. I take pride in the hard work and dedication it takes to accomplish my dreams and provide my family with everything they didn’t have growing up.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
Growing up, I didn’t always have all the answers, but I was lucky to have people step in and guide me along the way. Whether it was a teacher, a mentor, or just someone who believed in me, that support helped shape who I am today. It made the overwhelming stuff—like college applications and financial aid—feel a little more possible. That’s what I love most about being a mentor now. It’s the chance to be that kind of support for someone else. I know how big of a difference it can make just to have someone in your corner, and it means a lot to be that person for others.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being a first-generation student is the sense of purpose and perspective it brings. There’s a certain kind of resilience that comes from walking into spaces no one in your family has walked before. It’s not always easy—there are moments of doubt, pressure, and unfamiliarity—but there’s also an incredible amount of pride in knowing you’re building something new not just for yourself, but for the generations that come after you. 

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
Through personal experience, I know how difficult it can be to try to navigate the college world as a first-gen student. I love the feeling of being able to assist my mentees in their paths to success and all other journeys they hope to achieve by showing them all the different things that helped me. It is important to know you’re not alone and you can do anything you set your mind to!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I hold a strong sense of pride in being a first-gen student. I have accomplished so many things that I never thought possible and it is an extremely rewarding feeling. I really value the ability of being able to hold resilience and perseverance through any obstacles life/school throws at you. I truly think first-gen students are special, strong, and some of the most dedicated people I know.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
When I was a freshman, I had a mentor that really helped me out, and I love to help people in the same way. Helping my mentees adjust to college is very worthwhile for me. I'm also always excited to meet with my mentees!

What do you value about being a first-gen student? 
I value the independence that comes with it, but also the fact that my future is my own. I also value community and having opportunities.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because sharing what I’ve learned from my experiences gives me a real sense of accomplishment. It’s also a great way to connect with others and make new friends along the way.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? 
Being a first-gen student comes with its fair share of challenges, but the sense of accomplishment, the experiences, and the friendships make it all worth it. That’s why I hold the first-gen community so close to my heart—everyone is working toward similar goals, often coming from shared backgrounds and experiences.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I love being able to help people reach their goals and hope to make a positive impact in their lives. I value the role of a mentor because, in my experience, it's incredibly helpful to have someone guide you through something that might feel challenging at the time.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being a first-gen student because it pushes you to be unique, that’s what makes us so amazing! We have the power to pave our own path, one that reflects our values, personalities, and the hopes and dreams we have for the future.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy talking to people who I can relate to and also help with my experience being a first-gen minority. I feel I can connect and learn from meeting others because there's always something to learn from every person's experience. It also allows me to practice conversation techniques and skills that I don't get to practice often in my everyday conversations with friends and family.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I enjoy having my independence to get to choose to make mistakes on my own accord and learn from them. I like having my privacy and enjoy being alone. I think building my confidence as the first person in my family to go to college gives me so much empowerment and stress, but I am grateful for the experience I get while I am here.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
Mentoring gives me the chance to help others, connect with new people and build meaningful relationships. I also love creating a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can be themselves without needing to apologize for who they are. As a fellow first-gen student, I want to share that sense of belonging and encouragement with others on the same journey.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the experience and the strong sense of community that comes with being a first-gen student. I love how we all come from different backgrounds, yet still come together to support and uplift one another.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love that I will be able to give advice and guidance to my mentees coming into VCU. I had a great experience with my mentor when I was a freshman and was able to learn about all the resources VCU has to offer.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-gen student comes with its challenges; however, the community and peer support helps us get through those obstacles. Being the first in my family to go to college has been extremely rewarding and taught me more about myself.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love seeing my mentees grow into their full potential. There is something truly beautiful and inspirational about helping one to navigate their challenges and come out stronger on the other side.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Gratitude and resilience. For me, I always remind myself of my starting point. That is the motivation that pushes my self-discipline.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I appreciate the perspectives my mentees bring to the table as it can be extremely refreshing. I have been able to learn from the different backgrounds, majors, and lifestyles of some amazing people which in turn helps to build my leadership perspective. In addition, having the opportunity to experience life with someone who is in the same position I was

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value my resilience and initiative-taking skills as a first-gen student. I value the impact of my culture, my families history, and the community that has supported me as they have taught me how to remain determined.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy guiding other students and helping them reach their full potential, and knowing that I can make a difference in their journey as a first-gen student. I find it comforting that I am able to make connections with students who had the same struggles as me when I started my freshman year.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? 
Being a first-gen student really gives me the strong will to work hard in my academic career. It allows my dedication and perseverance to shine each day even through challenges.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love being able to pass down the knowledge and experience of my own personal journey getting through the fears of coming to school, navigating campus life, and being the first in your family to set a legacy behind you. Being a mentor for first gen students really gives me a great sense of joy to help them in the way YouFirst has helped and guided me through my college career. Being there for them in the capacity that they’re comfortable is something that betters me as an individual; both parties definitely benefit each other!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being able to have access to resources that YouFirst offers and being shown what’s available to me. Also, being able to have a community that understands exactly what I’m going through and how much it means to continue your education. The weight of being the first in your family can really be handled differently being around a huge network of first generation college students and of those who got through it. I genuinely value that support deeply.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being able to meet and guide first-gen students into their first semester of college. I had a great experience with my mentor freshman year, and I want to guide mentees like she guided me.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the bonds I have made through talking to other first-gen students to be able to help each other, as well as understand the challenges that come with being a first-gen student.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
Being a mentor gives me the opportunity to support and empower others as they grow in their personal and professional journeys. I love being able to share what I've learned, help others navigate challenges, and also celebrate their successes along the way. It's incredibly rewarding to build meaningful relationships and see someone gain confidence and clarity in their goals.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-gen student has taught me the power of perseverance. I value the journey—navigating unfamiliar systems, learning to advocate for myself, and finding strength in moments of doubt. It’s helped me grow into someone who isn’t afraid to ask for help, work hard, and keep pushing forward. I’m proud to be creating opportunities that didn’t exist before in my family.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I can pass on my own experiences that I have gone through during college and help my mentees balance their academic and personal responsibilities. It would give them the determination that they will achieve a lot on their journey as they don’t need to do this alone.

What do you value about being a first-gen student? (Complete sentences, please)
As a first-gen student, I value having found my own path at college, even though it was intimidating at first. There is much pressure with being the first in my family to graduate from college, but I still keep on standing and moving forward to greater heights.