National First-Generation to College Day

Gavilan College

Evergreen College

College of the Redwoods

San Jose City College

San Jose State University
BS – Administration of Justice

Boston University
Master of Criminal Justice

California State University East Bay
Master of Education – Emphasis on Online Teaching and Learning

As a high school dropout and first-generation college student, I understand many of the challenges associated with choosing to attend college as a First-Generation Student. I would have never believed that I would ever work in Academia after my own struggles with education throughout my life. However, I have been blessed (and worked extremely hard) to be able to help students when they needed it. I feel immense pride and happiness when see so many students overcome their fears, learning challenges, personal obstacles, stay motivated and succeed. I believe as a first-generation college professional I feel I can support our students with compassion, humility and understanding. It is truly an honor and humbling to know that my ancestors and family made sacrifices so I can be in this position to teach and help others.

The most important words of advice to first-gen students are that it is okay to accept support or help. This can be in the form of mentorship, financial help, tutoring, instructor support or whatever you are having challenges. There is a wide variety of resources on campus with which you can connect. It is going to be difficult but do not give up. You are not alone! There are people on campus that want to see you succeed. Make those connections! Have patience with yourself. College is difficult to navigate for many students and it is easy to get frustrated about things that you do not know how to do. It is okay because there is support or help for whatever it is, and it is perfectly fine to accept it.

Marymount Manhattan College

Bakersfield College

SFSU, BA Developmental Psychology 1996

Argosy University, MA, Forensic Psychology 2012

A source of inspiration to other students that are starting off in a similar journey. Although I had to navigate college by myself, my experience will help other First-Gen students realize their potential, and to empower them to where, YES, it can be done, and give them needed support.

I know this is tough, frightening, and overwhelming at first. I acknowledge the pressure of being the first in your family to take this endeavor. Look for others like me, who are prime examples of success that can happen to all of you, for any questions, fears, concerns, or thoughts.

President Taylor-Mendoza holds a B.A. in Psychology, from California State University, Los Angeles, an M.S. in Counseling, from California State University, Northridge, and a Ph.D. in Education, from Claremont Graduate University.

See full biography.

President Taylor-Mendoza, a proud alumna of a community college, finds deep significance in returning to a familiar environment that shaped her own educational journey. She has leveraged the knowledge and skills she acquired at community college and beyond to advocate for vulnerable students, recognizing that each faces unique challenges and opportunities on their path to higher education. Committed to giving back to the community, she aims to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive through education, mentoring, and coaching. President Taylor-Mendoza aspires to serve as a role model, inspiring others to realize their full potential and guiding them on their own journeys of growth and achievement.

Let the wisdom of your ancestors guide you.

Don’t hesitate to seek help and advocate for yourself. Embrace every opportunity, both personal and professional, with joy and enthusiasm. Remember, each experience is a chance for growth and connection!

Georgetown University, in D.C.-- MA in Contemporary Arab Studies & Politics

SJSU BA in Liberal Studies with a minor in French

SJSU Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Colorado State University, Graduate Certificate in Student Affairs Administration

I take great pride in what I achieved in my educational journey, especially as an immigrant who barely spoke English as a high schooler. Getting my masters was a dream that I never thought I could achieve! Not only did I do it, but I am also the only one in my family who has it.

It's also a dream and privilege for me to be working in my position at West Valley. To get to work with students every day, and to contribute, in positive ways, to their journey of achieving their educational dreams and goals is something that I treasure and hold dear. To see our students succeed, persevere, and achieve their dreams is what fuels me every day!

My advice to you as a first gen student at West Valley is to not be shy about asking for support; take advantage of every resource that is available to you on campus. If you don’t know what’s available, ask an instructor or a staff member. Don’t ever doubt or second guess your inner strength, your inner voice and the dreams you have set for yourself. Everything you need is within you, and we are here to help you tap into that should you need it.

West Valley College- AA Communication Studies

San Jose State University- Bachelor’s Communication & Masters in Public Administration-

University of Maryland- Pursuing Doctorate in Community College Management and Policy Administration

Being a First-Generation College Professional means giving back to my community; supporting and advocating for the success of first generation students. It also means learning to navigate new territory, similarly to navigating the education system as a First-Generation student. Being a First Gen professional means braking cycles of poverty and trauma, and paving the way for future generations. Being a First Generation professional means pride and honoring the sacrifices of those who came before me.

Keep pushing! Use all the resources available to you on campus and off campus. Be kind to yourself, what you are doing is HUGE and will be so worth it. I’m always here if you ever need anything or have any questions.

San Jose State University, MA in Counseling

Central Michigan University, Masters in Business Education

Central Michigan University, BS in Education

It means I have the opportunity provide the support and guidance to more first-generation students. I can share my story and my expertise to help them pave their way to a future with more opportunities.

The process will be difficult at times and you will question if you belong. You do. Rest in that certainty and surround yourself with people who share their stories and support.

Cypress College
A General Studies

CSU Fullerton
BA Liberal Studies
TRIO SSS Alumna

CSU Fullerton
MS Higher Education

USC
Military Clinical Skills Cert.

CSU Fullerton
EdD

Being first-generation to college is a lifelong journey. You never stop navigating the "hidden curriculum" that comes with academia and the professional world when it hasn’t been part of your family’s history. As a student, I was proud to make my family happy, but it wasn’t always easy. There were moments of tension when I couldn’t be as present at family gatherings or in their lives because my focus was on exams and studies. Now, as a first-gen professional, I carry that experience with me. I understand the weight my students bear, and I strive to offer them the grace, understanding, and support they need as they forge their own paths.

My greatest advice is this: never hesitate to seek support when you need it. You are not alone—there are countless first-gen professionals and allies who are cheering you on as you navigate college, striving for greater social and economic mobility for yourself and your family. Remember, your voice matters. Your ideas, your needs, and your perspective are invaluable. We need to hear you so that, together, we can co-create the experience that empowers you to thrive and succeed at West Valley College.

Santa Monica College, AA Studio Art

CSU Long Beach, BA Art History

SJSU, Masters in Higher Education Administration

I value having a profession that impacts lives in a positive way. I love working with students who are very much like I was--looking for connections and direction. It is so rewarding to see first-gen students thrive and succeed.

Get involved! Even if you are short on time, engage in student life in some way. It will enrich your time at college and will make these years more meaningful.

University of California, San Diego
Bachelor of Arts in Biological Anthropology, Minor in History

University of San Francisco
Master of Arts in Sport Management

To be the first person on both sides of my family to attend college and graduate filled me with a great sense of pride. It allowed me to be a role model for my younger sister and show that just because nobody else in our family went to college doesn't mean we need to go down the same path. It gave me a love and fondness for high education and set me on my career path.

Congratulations on being the first! It's going to be tough, but you have just proved to yourself that handwork and determination still pay off in the end even if it doesn't feel like it at the time. You will have many people in your corner rooting you on and helping you out, but in the end YOU are the one that started the journey, and YOU are the only one that can complete it. There will be days when you will want to give up, but those are the days that you dig in, and those are the days that you will look back on and realize that they were the ones that allowed you to grow and persevere. Once you graduate you will ALWAYS be a college graduate and nobody can take that away. You will also ALWAYS know that you are capable of finishing what you started no matter what gets in the way.

SMC B.A. in English

UVM M.A. in English

SFSU Ethnic Studies Graduate Certificate

First-generation college professionals are incredibly driven, often finding strength in their families and communities, taking their sacrifices as motivation to push us forward. Being First Gen means you manifest your family's hopes and become a source of pride for your parents and elders, as you materialize their dreams before their very eyes. It also means you must be incredibly resourceful and learn to network in order to find answers and guidance in institutions that seem foreign to us. But we're brave and learn to navigate- rather than shy away from- intimidating, bureaucratic institutions. It means, "I'm doing this for me, for us."

I encourage you to never see quitting as an option. Ever. Go one step at a time, remember your end goal, and keep moving steadily toward it even when it gets tough. Earning a college degree is HARD, but it's not impossible. If it were impossible, no one would do it. If it were easy, everyone would do it. You're part a special group that is willing to take on a long-term challenge and persevere. Remember where you came from, what gives you strength, and what you want to accomplish. And before you know you it, you'll be a college graduate.

Mt Sac, University of La Verne, Cal Baptist, SJSU- AA, BS, MBA, MS, EDD

Being a first-generation professional means facing challenges without the support or advice of family members who have been through the same experience. It's a journey that required hard work, determination, and the ability to figure things out on your own. Navigating different social, financial, and workplace environments that may feel unfamiliar. However, being a first-gen professional also brings a deep sense of pride. It's a testament of personal growth, resilience and showcasing how far you've come and inspiring others to follow in your footsteps.

Stay the course, YOU ARE NOT ALONE and in the end it will all be worth it!

Modesto Junior College - AA

San Francisco State University - BA, MA Hist, MA Anthropology, EdD

We stand on the shoulders of giants. My giants who uplifted and continue to do so are my immigrant gandparents, my parents, and my college mentors. I see my role as an opportunity to support students in the ways that I was supported.

Anyone who tells you that you "can't" or "shouldn't" don't want you to. Whatever that "it" is. Keep going, pursue your dreams. Follow your heart and your gut feeling(s). You are never alone!

CSU Long Beach
BS Business Administration

CSU Long Beach
MS Public Administration

Being a first-generation college student brings unique challenges and opportunities. Often we lack the benefit of familial experience and guidance when navigating the complexities of the college application process, understanding financial aid, and adapting to the academic and social aspects of college life. These complexities follow you into your professional career. However, our achievements are significant, as they break new ground within our families and communities, often serving as role models for future generations. Being a first-generation college student helps us live our parents' dreams.

Ask questions, don't be afraid of failure, find a mentor, and lastly enjoy every aspect of your journey.

Fact: TRIO and EOPS Programs are unique programs that serve a very similar student population.

The history of federal TRIO is progressive in its timeline. It began with Upward Bound, which emerged out of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 in response to the administration's War on Poverty. In 1965, Talent Search, the second outreach program, was created as part of the Higher Education Act. In 1968, Student Support Services, which was originally known as Special Services for Disadvantaged Students, was authorized by the Higher Education Amendments and became the third in a series of educational opportunity programs. By 1968 the term "TRIO" was coined to describe these federal programs.

At the same time in California, efforts were being made to support a similar student demographic.

In 1969, Senate Bill 164 was enacted into law, establishing EOPS within the California Community College system.

The intent was for EOPS to foster the identification, recruitment, retention, and educational stimulation of students affected by language, social or economic disadvantages, and to equalize the educational opportunities of these potential students. The first EOPS programs were established in Spring 1970 at 46 community colleges. Today, EOPS exists at all 112 community colleges in California.

University of California, Santa Barbara
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

A First-Generation to College Professional is someone who breaks barriers, redefines possibilities, and often serves as a trailblazer for others in their family and community. This journey often involves balancing personal ambitions with family expectations, which can create obstacles along the way. Despite these challenges, their resilience, adaptability, and determination pave the way for future generations, proving that educational and career success is achievable.

As first-generation college students, especially as the first in our families to attend, we are stepping into an unfamiliar path, often without the inherited knowledge, guidance, or support of others. As a result, we tend to adopt the mindset of figuring things out on our own. However, the college provides a wealth of resources—seek them out and take advantage of them. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.

Washington College, BA in Mathematics and Music

As someone who was told that a good education will get you far, I took this to heart from a young age. Not only being a first-generation college student, but also being adopted meant that I had a lot to prove to myself to believe that I could succeed. Many first-gen students go to college not knowing what it truly means to have this opportunity in your hands—and I was one of them. Applying for schools, seeking scholarships, understanding the difference between a Bachelor of Arts versus a Bachelor of Science, all of these things felt unknown to me, but I never let that stop my motivation to make myself and my family proud. Being a first-generation college student means being brave. Accepting mistakes for what they are and still choosing to put the next foot forward, even if in the moment it doesn’t feel like the best one. As first-gens, we have the daunting task of being the FIRST. And setting the precedent for future generations, whether that’s siblings or future children, grandchildren—no matter who it is, we are paving the way to inspire each other and encourage self-efficacy. And that can be terrifying. But also exhilarating. Being first-gen means LEARNING. Learning about things your parents might not be able to help you with, learning how to overcome the imposter syndrome, learning more about YOU. Honestly, my college experience taught me to be more vulnerable, not just with other people, but with myself. I had to learn that college was a new experience for me and my family, but having their support throughout my journey gave me the courage to continue succeeding. Now as a proud first-generation college graduate, I have learned what it means to be first-generation. You are never alone in your experiences, and you never have to fail or make mistakes by yourself. You will have guidance and cheerleaders in every corner. This unwavering belief from family, friends, and faculty gave me the push to pursue my passions for higher education and continue work as a college professional. Being able to work on a college campus and hear all of the inspiring stories from my students further fulfills my joy in having the opportunity I did. Everyone deserves the chance to a good education, and I couldn’t be prouder to represent first-generation students at West Valley College.

One of the hardest things any student has to learn while in college is how to ask for help. We are the children of hard-working parents with hard-working parents who came before them and so on, and often times none of them wanted to ask for help either. There is always a desire to be independent and self-sufficient to prove that we are strong, because that’s likely how our parents raised us. However, asking for help is a form of bravery and strength that cannot be made on one’s own. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether that’s speaking up in class for clarification on a topic, taking charge of your schedule to take the classes you are passionate about, or being vulnerable about feeling alone, unsure, or scared. There is always someone who is willing to help. As a college student, I battled a lot with my imposter syndrome—the feeling that for some reason, somehow, I did not belong. I worked hard in classes, got straight As, built connections with my peers and professors, yet the looming fear that I was somehow not where I was meant to be would often find its way to my head. It is in those moments that I learned to ask for help. As a first-gen student, I was never going to know all of the answers on how to do college “right,” but by talking to my friends and professors and advisors about the self-doubt, it taught me that if you surround yourself with the right people, there will always be someone to support you and champion your victories, no matter how small.

Ealham College, BA Physics

Being a first-generation college student as an international student means carrying two distinct forms of pioneering responsibility. Each day brings the weight of navigating uncharted waters not only for yourself but for your entire family back home, who may not fully grasp the American higher education system or its cultural nuances.

As a first-generation community college student, remember that you're blazing a trail not just for yourself, but for others who will follow in your footsteps. Don't hesitate to reach out to your professors during office hours – they're there to help you succeed, and these conversations can lead to valuable mentorship opportunities. Take advantage of every resource your college offers, from free tutoring to academic advisors who can help plan your course schedule and potential transfer path. While juggling work, family obligations, and classes may feel overwhelming, remember that your unique life experience brings valuable perspective to the classroom.

Mission College, AA-Psychology

John F. Kennedy, BS-Psychology

John F. Kennedy, Masters-Clinical Psychology

Being a first-generation college student means so much to me. First, it means that I made my parents proud because all they wanted was for me to do better than them and have the opportunities to do so. It meant that I had the chance to pass on something generation changing. On a deeper level, it means that I broke the chain in my family AND that I started a new one. It means that I can look back at the fight and strength of my ancestors and be proud that I am living proof that they fought for a reason.

My advice to WVC first-gen college students will probably sound cliche but it's real. My advice is to believe in yourself, build your support team whether that is other students, family, or faculty/staff, and don't give up. Know that there are resources available to you and be to open in receiving them. It may be hard work, but it well worth it once you accomplish that goal.