What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I thoroughly enjoy helping others settle into their pathway and just being a guide. I always wish I had that, and I want to be that individual to help others out.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I really value how resilient it made me as an individual because I have grown so much and also learned so much along the way.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
Mentoring is the most meaningful way to process my own experiences and pass them on to someone else. Helping another person navigate the complexities I once faced is deeply fulfilling, and I can turn my past hurdles into their future opportunities.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-generation student builds a unique, resilient independence. I’ve learned to navigate complex systems, and I’m turning my education into a powerful tool for social mobility. This journey gives me an important perspective that fuels a leadership style rooted in grit, empathy, and a commitment to uplifting my community.

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 student!

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?
My favorite thing about being a mentor is building connections with students who share a similar background as me. It is very encouraging to see so many first generation students starting college and having support to help them navigate it. When I had a mentor my freshman year, it helped me find my place at VCU.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
For me, being a first generation student can be nerve wracking at first, but it is extremely rewarding. I am grateful for the opportunity to go to college and study what interests me. The support from my parents and family makes the late night study sessions and long homework assignments worthwhile!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because it allows me to connect with others and share my experiences in a meaningful way. It is a rewarding experience to see others grow, gain confidence, and develop their own skills over time.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-generation student is being able to pave the way and set a foundation for those who come after me. It motivates me to work hard knowing that my journey can create opportunities and a starting point for others in my family and community.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love being a mentor because I am able to share my experiences and support others as they navigate their college journey. Being able to provide a meaningful experience, encourage students through challenges, and see them reach their goals is something that brings me genuine joy. I value the opportunity to create a supportive environment where students can build confidence and reach their full potential.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-generation student has made me value every achievement, no matter how big or small. Being able to pave my own path as first-generation students is both empowering and meaningful because it requires determination and resilience. It is also motivating to see how far I have come, and that perspective continues to push me to keep growing.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a helper, however I can. Whether it’s answering questions or helping someone navigate a difficult situation I enjoy being able to serve. Encouragement is another area I like to help in. Everyone, sooner or later will need someone to help them get through a hard day. Being a mentor helps me to serve others in this way.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being an example. It allows me to share with others that they can do anything they set their minds to. I enjoy giving  and sharing my experiences.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love being able to connect with people from various backgrounds and providing guidance and support to others, especially knowing how it felt when I first entered college. I also enjoy the amazing community YouFirst brings!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-generation student caused me to gain many valuable traits such as resilience, perseverance, and self-advocacy. Despite the hardships, I am reminded of the fact that I am able to pursue heights that many of my family members weren't able to achieve. I hope that people who have a similar experience to mine are not discouraged, but rather determined to keep going.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love being a part of the growth process of my mentees. It is an honor and a privilege to support and contribute to their understanding of themselves and VCU.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
As a first-generation student, I value the opportunity to experience what my ancestors could not and to pass on my institutional knowledge to my younger siblings and mentees.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I look forward to being a mentor so that I can help other first-gen students navigate their college experience. l would also like to share and guide others to campus resources that I wasn't aware of during my first year here at VCU.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being able to build a legacy and leading by example. I would like to encourage others to pursue higher education and explore different career options. The college experience has definitely helped me build my independence and find my sense of self.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because it has helped develop my leadership skills while also getting a chance to meet new people. Since I am an upperclassman, I love to give my knowledge to other students who may be lost coming into college, as I once was. I would also consider myself a very empathetic, encouraging person, so being a mentor is a great way to help other students through their college journey when they might need a friend!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being a first-generation student because it is rewarding to get the chance to further my education. It is a privilege to be able to take my education to the next level, despite the fact that none of my family has. Being a first-generation student can be stressful, but my family is always extremely supportive of my decision to go to college. I also really value the fact that being first generation has given me a better opportunity to learn how to be independent and make decisions for myself!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
As a mentor, I enjoy getting to know my peer mentors. If there's something I don't know or have trouble answering, I can always count on my team to assist me. Additionally, I love getting to know my mentees; they always introduce me to new adventures or ways to enjoy my time on campus!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
As a first-gen, I value the organizations that give extra time and resources to help me be and feel confident, whether that's with assignments, campus involvement, or my grades. Being first-generation has helped me become a better college student, and with the knowledge I learned, it'll help me become a better leader for those who also look like me.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy helping and guiding others so that they can achieve what I couldn't in my freshman year! I also like being a support system in which my mentee feel comfortable relying on me with their freshmen experience.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value breaking barriers within my family and myself. Taking those hard lessons taught to me because I lack information and advice coming into college and applying it to school and life!

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?
It allows me to make a difference in someone’s life, even if they might not believe so, where they come into a new place and I am able to make them feel heard and appreciated. I’m always willing to share my knowledge and experiences with my mentees. Overall just being able to see the progress and change within their time of me being a mentee.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being first gen is making it out in life and being able to be the first to provide for those who gave me the courage and help I needed to get to where I am. It allows me to have other opportunities that I didn’t think would be possible, and being able to give back to others like me and relate to others is such an honor. Because we all deserve to be seen and give ourselves credit for getting this far.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I really enjoy being there for other students, especially for my fellow first-gens. While this is my first time mentoring through You First, I have been a mentor before in other programs that work with first-gen students and it's very rewarding helping them succeed in their academics and post-secondary pursuits and seeing them grow/develop. I also enjoy being a role model for them since it pushes me to continue doing well.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the resilience, community, resourcefulness, and connections I've gained as a first-gen student. There have been several times I've wanted to give up, but the community I have both at home and also here have made me keep going. Not only for myself, but to make my loved ones proud and to get a degree/succeed for them, since they couldn't. One of the upsides I had as a first-gen student is connections I've made. Since neither of my parents were able to go to college, I had to go out of my way and connect with people who have been in my shoes and became successful. I've also met a ton of other first-gen students/grads who have been welcoming and willing to help with anything. The last thing I value about being first gen is the resourcefulness I've gained. Though I am fortunate to have many people to go to for help, I've still had to teach myself how to utilize my resources and work with what I have to succeed as a college student. Ultimately, being first-gen has been a challenging but wonderful experience and I hope all my fellow first-gen students learn and grow from it as well.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
My passion for mentoring stems from my desire to help others based on my experience in college and in life. My mentees need a good support system to succeed in college, and as they progress into their careers I want to be there to help and cheer them on. It's a great feeling to share knowledge with people that can help make their journey more successful.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
My experience and status allow me to break generational barriers, serve as a role model for relatives, representation, and future generations to be able to model behavior to know anything is possible in life. I also feel that navigating college without guidance has allowed me to become a stronger and more understanding person. Since I started this college career, I've grown so much, and I'm looking forward to continuing to grow, uplift others, and create new possibilities for my community around me.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being able to meet others like me and help them in a way that they will never forget! Mental health has always been important to me and to be a student's support system is very fulfilling.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I believe that I am setting an example and acting as a trailblazer for my siblings and the future generations of my family. Though it can be hard at times, having other first-gen students around makes everything more enjoyable!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because I like helping other students feel more confident and supported in their academic journey. I know how overwhelming college can feel at times, especially in challenging classes, so I appreciate being able to share my own experiences and study strategies. It makes me happy to see someone improve and realize they are capable of succeeding.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being a first-generation student because it shows my determination to build a better future through education. It motivates me to work hard and stay focused on my goals, especially in fields like science and healthcare that I am passionate about. I am proud to be creating opportunities not just for myself, but also for my family and others who may follow after me.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
So far, I technically haven't been a mentor, but what I look forward to is helping those who are seeking it or don't know if they want it, but presenting the opportunity to help and be a support for said student! College is an experience, and sometimes a first for some coming into VCU, but regardless, everyone should be given the chance to be involved in something and to have a good social circle and I just hope to be a part of that for someone.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value that for those who are also first-gen, while our experiences may not be the same, or may be close, we all come from different walks of Earth but end up here and to try and figure things out together—I love the support outlets given too being a first-gen, and value how connected everyone is without it ever having to be a thing where we meet, but just know that others have their own story while one has their own.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I really love being able to help others! As someone who can get rather overwhelmed in new situations, I enjoy making sure other students don't have to stumble over the same roadblocks me and my peers did. VCU can be difficult to navigate socially, academically, and physically, so making sure incoming freshmen get lost as little as possible is really important!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-gen student means that my family hasn't been able to complete the seemingly impossible task of getting a four-year degree, which makes it feel a lot better whenever I'm struggling. Knowing that whatever I am doing now is better than just good enough, that I've gotten further than others in my family, is really valuable to me.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?

I enjoy being a mentor because I like supporting and encouraging others as they navigate college and personal challenges. It is rewarding to help students feel more confident and comfortable in their journey.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?

As a first-generation student, I value the hard work, resilience, and growth that come with creating opportunities for myself and my family. I also value being able to inspire others from similar backgrounds.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I like most about being a mentor is having the chance to be the support system I didn’t always have growing up. I didn’t really have a mentor or someone to guide me through certain situations, so I know what it feels like to figure things out on your own and sometimes feel a little lost. Because of that, I would want to help others who might be in the same position I was in by offering guidance, encouragement, and just someone to talk to. Being a mentor would allow me to give back in a meaningful way and hopefully make someone else’s experience a little easier and less overwhelming than mine sometimes was.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a First-Gen Student means a lot to me because it’s helped me stay focused and motivated, especially during times when college feels overwhelming. It’s not just about having support, but knowing that I have people and resources I can rely on when I need guidance. Through YouFirst, I’ve been working on improving my time management and staying consistent with my goals, which hasn’t always been easy, but it’s made a difference. It’s helped me grow not only as a student but as a person, and it’s pushed me to take my future more seriously and hold myself accountable.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I am incredibly excited to share the wisdom and lived experience I have gathered with my mentees. My goal is to help students recognize the vast opportunities available within the VCU campus and the broader college environment, showing them that higher education is a powerful space for both academic and personal transformation. Beyond the classroom, I am passionate about guiding students toward the skills they need for adulthood, from financial literacy and stability to holistic health and self-improvement. I believe that true growth happens when you fully engage with the academic community, and I am honored to pay forward the support I have received by bringing the joy of learning to everyone I meet.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Coming to VCU opened my eyes to the incredible community of first-generation students. Since participating in these programs, I’ve felt a growing sense of pride in my identity and the unique path I’m charting. For me, being first-gen means honoring the foundation my parents built while exploring new opportunities they didn't have access to. I value being part of a community that understands the specific journey of a first-gen scholar and provides a space to celebrate our shared milestones and academic achievements.

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 have the opportunity to support and guide students throughout their college journey. I want my mentees to know that I have once been in their position, and help them navigate the future.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value my skills of discipline and resilience as a first-gen student. Throughout my journey, I have learned to persevere through every challenge in order to reach my goals.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy helping others like me who may feel lost during the overwhelming college process. Being able to help people on this journey is truly fulfilling and I strive to be a source of guidance for those students and make a meaningful impact.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being a first-gen student is the sense of pride it brings. This is a significant accomplishment, no matter what anyone says, and you should be proud of yourself for reaching this point. Also, finding a sense of community with other first-gen students that support you is like no other. It gives me a sense of purpose and determination to reach my goals.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy most about being a mentor for first-generation students is helping them navigate systems that often aren’t clearly explained. Many first-gen students are figuring things out without a built-in roadmap, so it’s meaningful to provide guidance and make those paths more understandable. I appreciate being able to share practical advice about academics, time management, and opportunities that they might not otherwise hear about. It’s especially rewarding to see their confidence grow as they realize they belong and are capable of succeeding. I also value building a supportive relationship where they feel comfortable asking questions and being honest about challenges. Mentoring first-gen students feels impactful because even small pieces of guidance can make a big difference in their experience. Overall, I enjoy helping them gain clarity, confidence, and a stronger sense of direction in their goals.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being a first-generation student is the sense of resilience and independence it builds. Without a family roadmap for navigating college, I have learned how to seek out resources, ask questions, and advocate for myself. I also value the perspective it gives me, because I understand the challenges that come with balancing academics, expectations, and unfamiliar systems. Being first-gen has made me more appreciative of opportunities that I might otherwise take for granted. It has also strengthened my motivation to succeed, not just for myself but for my family as well. I take pride in setting an example and creating a new path for the kids in my family. Overall, being a first-generation student has shaped my determination, adaptability, and sense of purpose.

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? 
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 enjoy being a guide or support for anyone, especially when I have encountered the same challenges in the past. Being able to share my past experiences is extremely rewarding to me, and I can't wait to share them with my mentees! I love seeing how everyone I mentored in the past has grown since our conversations, and I can't wait to see that with my mentees.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being first-gen can be difficult at times, but that difficulty turns into resilience. It can sometimes be hard to put yourself out there, but once you do, the world's your oyster. I value everything I accomplished to get where I am, and most importantly, the sacrifices my parents made. My parents dedication to building a better life for me inspires me every day to keep moving forward as a student.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor? 
I enjoy being able to help people and lead them down the right path to be successful. I enjoy being the support for others who were once in my shoes, lost and confused about which way to go.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being able to create my own path and being independent while making my family proud.

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?
I enjoy being a mentor because I value growth, both for myself and others. Being able to encourage someone, share advice, and see their progress is really rewarding to me.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-generation student is the independence and resilience it builds. I’ve had to figure out a lot on my own, which has helped me grow and become more confident in navigating challenges. I also value the impact it can have on my future. By going through this process, I’m creating a foundation and opening doors so that if I have kids one day, they’ll have more guidance, resources, and opportunities than I did.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy helping others and being a positive moving force towards others accomplishments and sustainability. I love seeing the smiles and enjoyment of other students and seeing them accomplish their goals. Overall, I'm always here to lend a helping hand or participate in a study session to make sure we accomplish academic excellence in everything we do.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value being the first in line and leading healthy standards for those behind me in my family. I love bringing enough to the table for everyone to eat off and being a positive figure for my family to look up to. Overall, I love being a shiny display for others in my family to lean and learn upon no matter what question or conversation is had.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy most about being a mentor is that it gives me the opportunity to guide and be of a support system and a safe space to kids who are growing and finding their individuality. The experience is a reward itself because I get to share my knowledge, experiences while also developing meaningful connections and building a positive environment. It's truly fulfilling to see the success students endure because of this program.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
As a first-gen student, I value being able to break generational barriers. It reminds me that I am more than capable to do the "hard things" and that I will persevere in the end. Furthermore, I am still learning, I don't get everything right on the first try, but I keep going; so that I can be an example for my family and for other students.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
Being a mentor means a lot to me because I love helping people. Being able to be someone others go to for advice has always been very important to me. Mentoring also allows me to meet new people I wouldn't typically get the chance to know!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-gen student is so fulfilling, knowing that I am making my parents proud. The community that comes along with being a first-gen is so welcoming and feels like a home away from home.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I love being a mentor because I enjoy being someone others can feel comfortable coming to for advice, encouragement, or support. I love helping people feel welcomed, included, and confident in themselves, especially during stressful or unfamiliar situations. Being able to connect with others, share my experiences, and watch them grow is so rewarding to me. I also enjoy creating positive and genuine relationships that make people feel seen and supported.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
Being a first-generation student means a lot to me because it represents hard work, resilience, and breaking barriers for myself and my family. I value the strength and independence that being first-gen has taught me, and I take pride in knowing that I am creating opportunities for my future. Although the journey can be challenging, it has made me more motivated, compassionate, and determined to succeed. I also value being able to inspire and uplift other students who may come from similar backgrounds.

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 most enjoy creating a community where both my mentee and I can learn as we grow and grow as we learn.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the empathetic and trailblazer mindset that I’ve developed while navigating being a first-gin student.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
As a mentor, I can provide the support that I needed, not only as a first-year student, but also as a first-gen student. Being able to help students establish themselves in a new era of life is an immense joy, and I love getting to lift them up.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I’m incredibly proud of how hard I’ve worked despite many challenges faced. There’s so much gratitude involved in being first-gen, knowing how much has been poured into getting you where you are and where you can be. Without having that representation, it’s important to me to be that representation to other first-gen students; giving them a visual representation that they can achieve anything they put their mind to.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
As a mentor, my favorite thing is to be a resource. I love able to help people in ways I never was, I don't want you to struggle if I can help and I love being able to tell you from a place of experience. I love being someone who is a friendly face, usually the first, and being able to have a impact on how you experience a whole new world (college). Being a mentor is about learning from yourself and your mentee and I love being able to grow through these experiences; you never know I might learn something new!

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the journey and the hard work put into getting here. None of this is easy, sometimes that sucks, but to know you got through it and you determined and successful is something I hope any first-gen student gets to experience. I'm at a point where I'm confident in my abilities when a year ago I felt useless, it gets better and it's all about how bad you want it and how hard you work for yourself. Being first-gen is going against the grain and proving that anyone can do hard things, even if you're the first.

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?
What I enjoy about being a mentor is being able to contribute to and witness someone’s growth. It’s really rewarding, and I also value the connections and trust that come from it. We’ve all had mentors who have helped us greatly, so being able to do the same is an amazing opportunity.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-gen student is the strength, skill, and resilience it represents. It means creating opportunities for both myself and my family that they didn’t have. It is a huge motivation and pushes me to keep striving for success.

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?
What I like most about being a mentor is being able to be a guide to those who need one. I know how important it is to have someone outside of your advisor or family to speak to about college, and I want to be that for someone.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-gen student is breaking the cycle. To be the first one in my family to attend college has been a blessing like no other and I want to continue breaking cycles and show others that they can as well.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I enjoy being a mentor because it allows me to support students who are in a new environment, as I once found myself in that same position. I know how confusing and overwhelming it can feel, so I try to be someone others can come to without feeling judged. I also want to set a good example for my mentees and show them that things do get easier with time. Being a mentor reminds me of my own journey and how much I’ve grown since I first started. It feels rewarding to give support in a way that actually helps someone else adjust and succeed.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value most about being a first-gen student is that it gives me the chance to build something my family hasn’t had access to before and to turn unfamiliar spaces into opportunities for growth. There’s a real sense of pride in knowing I’m navigating college without a blueprint, even when it means I have to figure things out the hard way or learn as I go. This experience has made me resilient and self-sufficient by allowing me to persevere despite failures and stresses I may face. Additionally, this makes me motivated since I realize that what I am working towards will not only benefit me but my entire family.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy about being a mentor is seeing the positive impact I can make on others. As a first-generation student myself, I know it can be difficult to acclimate to a whole new environment without much knowledge or assistance on what to expect. As a mentor, I think it’s important to both assist as well as form meaningful connections with my students! It’s always good to have a shoulder to lean on.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-gen student is the journey I can cultivate on my own without any heaping expectations. I want to make my parents proud; carrying that kind of determination throughout my college journey is something that fuels my academic success. In general, being a student at VCU has opened up several opportunities for me and I can’t wait to conquer them!

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
What I enjoy most about being a mentor is helping someone grow and become more confident in themselves, whether that be academically or personally! It feels rewarding to share what I’ve learned and navigate someone in the most helpful direction. I also like creating a positive bond where they feel supported and comfortable asking questions. Being able to make even a small difference in someone’s journey is what makes mentoring meaningful to me and I hope that I can achieve that! What do you value about being a first-gen student?

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
What I value about being a first-gen student is the chance to create new opportunities for myself and my family. It makes me proud of myself for being able to overcome difficulties that stem from being a first-gen student, as well as achieving the things my parents had once desired to pursue. I value the strength and independence it builds, and being an older sibling means that I can also be a mentor to my younger sister. It motivates me to work hard and set an example for others who might have been in the same situation. Trusting the process and being patient is definitely something I had to learn along the way.

What do you enjoy about being a mentor?
I am excited to be a mentor to help provide first generation college students with the support they need as they navigate the changes that this new chapter brings. I enjoy connecting and relating with new people I meet and love to offer guidance whenever needed.

What do you value about being a first-gen student?
I value the determination and growth of being a first-generation student.  I value each of my accomplishments a little bit more knowing how hard I worked to achieve them and to get to where I am today.  

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? 
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? 
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.