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Degrees: BS Aerospace Engineering and BA Atmospheric and Oceanic Studies

Hometown: Aurora, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Being a first generation student means overcoming challenges that your family doesn't have experience with. Similarly, it also means creating a new path for you and your family.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Don't ever be discouraged by failure. Only grow from it.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Aurora, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Seeing other people that were in the same position as me of being a first generation student and were relatable really motivated me to keep going and helped me believe that I can do it. To me being a first generation graduate means being an inspiration to those that are still going through college journey.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

One piece of advice I would give to current first generation students is to have a strong core group of friends that have similar motivation as yourself. Without the friends I have made during my time here I would not have made it as far as I have come.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Denver, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Being a first generation student carries a lot of weight. Coming to CU I didn't even know how to navigate the websites and portals to sign up for my classes. Luckily a lot of hands reach out to help guide you, but ultimately as a first generation you are learning on your own for a lot of the journey. Although struggles come with being a first generation student, there is a lot of pride and motivation that stems from representing your family and becoming better for them. Thinking about my family and being the first to attend and graduate from a university really motivated me through the tough times.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

My advice is that college is not a race. Think about where you want to be at the end, the time will pass anyway so don't get impatient. Find what works for you financially and work hard to get where you want to be.

Degree: BS Engineering Plus (emphasis in Mechanical Engineering and concentration in Engineering Management)

Minors: Global Engineering, Engineering Management

Hometown: Sunnyvale, California

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Being a first generation graduate is a huge accomplishment because college is already hard enough as it is, and figuring it out on your own can be scary at times. This also makes it all the more exciting and a great source of pride when you do get through it and succeed on your own. I have been lucky enough to have extremely supportive parents who did their best to help me in any way they could, as well as an older sister who was the first in the family to graduate. Being a first generation graduate also brought me closer to many of my peers who were also first generation graduates, and proved that we can be just as successful or even more so than others.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Make as many friendships and relationships as you can with your classmates, professors, and TA's. They have an extensive amount of knowledge about college, post-grad, and jobs that you can't get anywhere else. A lot of them also experienced being a first generation student and can help you avoid mistakes they made or gain knowledge they wish they had.

Degree: BS Aerospace Engineering

Minor: Engineering Management

Hometown: Lakewood, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Being a first generation graduate to me means to never allow yourself to hinder your own success by placing imaginary boundaries on your own abilities. As a first generation graduate, you are likely doing/learning things you have never been exposed to or seen success through others with. You are essentially throwing yourself into the deep end for the sake of contributing to humanity in a more meaningful pursuit and setting new standards that have likely not been met by those around you. To be a first generation graduate means striving for reaching your highest potential regardless of how uncomfortable it may be.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

The biggest piece of advice I would give to current first generation students is to let your passion drive your path and never let your doubts or insecurities create barriers to your success which limit what you can offer to the world.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Minor: Space Minor

Hometown: Aurora, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means proving to my family that their sacrifices for me to get an education resulted in me accomplishing it. I also proved to myself that I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to if I want it bad enough.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Remember that you are capable of doing anything you set your mind to. So do just that. Set a goal for yourself that you want to accomplish by getting your degree and whenever it feels like it's too difficult, remind yourself of why you want it. Be determined but also remember to enjoy your time here in Boulder.

Degree: BS Environmental Engineering

Hometown: Canon City, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To me, being a first generation graduate means that I had to work a little harder to get to the same point as my peers. However, it has allowed me to develop skills that no parent can teach. I've learned how to manage my time in my own way, and to push myself outside of my comfort zone and take on new challenges. I never had a hand out, but I've learned to hold my hand out and help others when they need it. Simply because I know the struggle. Being a first generation graduate means that I am paving a way for others to follow and leading a life that is entirely my own.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Go to office hours!! I wouldn't have made it through engineering without the help of professors and TA's.

Degree: BS Civil Engineering

Hometown: Colorado Springs, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

I am proud to be a first generation graduate. This degree will allow me to pursue my goals and dreams. Becoming a civil engineer, will give me the opportunity to help other people and improve society.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Join clubs and do activities that interest you because there are so many people who you'll be able to meet that have similar backgrounds and interests. It makes college a lot more fun.

Degree: BS Computer Science

Hometown: Xianyang, Shaanxi China

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

As the first person escaped out of Plato's Cave in my family, I am ready to explore a bigger world.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Don’t let your past limit your future.

Degree: BS Chemical and Biological Engineering

Minor: Biomedical Engineering 

Hometown: Mead, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

I'm one step closer to achieving my future goals. My family has always been a big support in helping me chase after my love for learning. I'm happy to show them where that love and encouragement has led me and where I'm going.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Reflect and think about what you have already overcome. The journey is rough, but it will one day just be another thing you conquered.

Degree: BS Architectural Engineering

Minor: Electrical Engineering

Hometown: Arvada, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Someone who starts a new chapter of a brighter future in their family.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Make sure you choose a field of study that will be worth all the effort, time, and investments.

Degree: BS Civil Engineering

Hometown: Pueblo, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means I can help my family, myself and my kids have an opportunity to make a better life.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

No matter how many times you hear you can’t do it, you can.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: San Salvador, El Salvador

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

I am the carrier of the goals and aspirations that my family has had. Their hard work and perseverance is highlighted in the opportunity I get to graduate from college. I have the chance to be a college graduate for the glory of God, for my family and loved ones, and for my culture. As a first generation graduate, I am part of the growing group of Hispanic young adults that will make a difference in this country, while still respecting and celebrating our roots. Thank you God for this opportunity.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Advocate for yourself always. No one truly understands the struggles of being a first generation student, so always be confident in your abilities. Let everyone know that you are capable of doing great things, and that you will succeed in whatever path you want to take. 

Degree: BS Computer Science

Hometown: Greeley, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means that I am able to contribute to the greater academic world in a way that is unique to my upbringing.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Ask questions and for help whenever you can.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Southwest Denver, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Being a first generation graduate is proof that anyone can change the course of their family's history if given the right tools and opportunities. It means that with enough work and commitment, all things are possible, regardless of all things prior.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

You are right where you need to be.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Minors: Engineering Management, Philosophy 

Hometown: Littleton, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means a lot to me to be a first generation graduate because I feel like my graduation is a representation of all the hard work myself and my family put in to get me to where I am today.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

I would advise other first generation students to ask lots of questions to current and past university students about their academic and social college experience. I would also advise first generation students to join at least one academic society and one social society in their first year. 

Degree: BS Aerospace Engineering

Hometown: Virginia Dale, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

I think that being a first generation graduate student has meant alot to me and my family. For me, it has been inspiring to know that I was able to push myself to get a degree in college. For my family, I have been able to make my parents proud of who I have become over the last several years and I have become a great role model for my younger siblings to also go to college.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students?

A piece of advice I would give to current first generation students is that it is important to stay dedicated to your studies and good things will follow. By doing this you will start to create good friendships and develop a community to help support you in college.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Littleton, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means everything to be a first generation graduate for me and my family. I am proud to be a part of something larger and important as well as represent my family.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Look deeply into what ways you can most benefit yourself while at college. By this I mean what types of internships, programs, etc. are best for you. Do as much as you can in something that interests you while you have the time at college to do so.

Degree: BS Aerospace Engineering

Minor: Atmospheric and Oceanic Studies

Hometown: Moorestown, New Jersey

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It's a tremendous feeling to venture into personally uncharted territories. Showing your family members that your history doesn't dictate what you can do. The only limitations are the ones you set for yourself and that if you truly want something it can be achieved with enough determination and hard work.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

The work doesn't get easier, but you get better at managing it. You constantly have to fight to get over the hump. Don't give in until you're happy with where you are with your progress. 

Degree: BS Applied Computer Science 

Hometown: Brisbane, Queensland, Australia (!)

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means a lot especially because my family worked so hard to make sure I was able to get a good education!

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Getting therapy from licensed psychologists who practice CBT is something you should invest in for yourself, even if you think everything is OK. It'll pay dividends as you improve your relationships with others and yourself. And it'll help you in your health, education and professional endeavors. Don't be shy about making regular therapy a personal priority. Also, it isn't anyone else's business so don't feel like you have to disclose therapy to anyone.

Degree: BS Electrical & Computer Engineering

Hometown: Loveland, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To me, it simply means to be the first generation of my nuclear family to complete college. I will go on to lead a more prosperous life than my family, I suppose, but money wouldn't mean anything if I didn't get to also fulfill my dreams. That is the main noble use of college.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Work hard. Work harder than everyone else. You'd be surprised how far you can go with that mentality.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Fort Collins, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

It means to work hard, stay motivated and overcome many obstacles but always finding a way.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

To stay true to yourself and keep striving though all obstacles you face.

Degree: BS Engineering Plus (emphasis in Mechanical Engineering)

Minor: Business Minor

Hometown: Wheat Ridge, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To me, being a first generation graduate means forging my own path. It's nice to have others who've come before you to offer advice, but I am creating my own path rather than following one laid out for me.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Find others who can support you in your growth during college. There will be those who place you below them because you're not a legacy, but keep looking for those who hold you as their equal.

Degree: BS Mechanical Engineering

Minor: Engineering Management

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To be a first generation comes with a lot of pressure, especially having parents that have given their all in order to make sure you're provided with the best opportunities. The experience of navigating college independently has been extremely rewarding. Knowing that I'm paving a new path and setting an example for future generations is one of the best feelings in the world.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Stay positive, remember your goals, do what makes you happy, and be fearless!

Degree: BS Aerospace Engineering and B.S. Applied Math

Hometown: Aurora, Colorado

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

I think of this moment as overcoming socioeconomic obstacles that a relative few can get past. Moving up the ladder in society has new challenges and experiences that I would've never conceived of years ago. This chapter of my life is coming to a close, but one should never forget the sweat and tears that we expended to get here. This is one of the few times in life where the journey matters more than the destination.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

It is not uncommon for you to experience severe setbacks that feel crippling like failing a class or getting rejected from a position. Adapt and overcome from these setbacks so that when you go at it again things will be different because you are the master of your destiny, let nothing stop you from achieving your goals. 

Degree: BS in Mechanical Engineering

Hometown: Vallejo, California

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

Being a first generation student was a big leap coming from an family of immigrants. My freshman year, I had no idea what to expect nor did I understand the significance of being a college student, but now as a graduating senior I feel incredibly lucky to have had this experience.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Go to office hours as frequent as possible and do not underestimate the importance of networking! First generation students don't have the privileges of someone who can get a job in their field through nepotism. Put yourself out there as much as possible. Clubs are a great way to do it, especially in engineering.

Degree: BS Aerospace Engineering

Hometown: Clifton, New Jersey

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To me, it means building upon the foundation that my parents and grandparents laid for me in making a better life for my family.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Create a support system. Surround yourself with good people that will help you get through the hard times, because there will be hard times.

Degree: BS Electrical Engineering

Minor: Space Minor

Hometown: Macomb, Michigan

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To me, being a first generation graduate is all about learning. I feel so thankful that I could be surrounded by educators and peers that were always willing to help me learn and grow academically and professionally. Being a first generation graduate makes you realize that you really can do anything you put your mind to.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

Never let anyone look down on you or make you feel less than for any reason. Be strong and confident!

Degree: BS Aerospace Engineering

Minors: Applied Mathematics, Space Minor

Hometown: Braintree, Massachusetts

What does it mean to you to be a first generation graduate?

To be a first generation graduate means that I get to have opportunities that weren't available to my family before. I have my parents to thank for working so hard to give me this amazing experience and open up a world of careers to me. A degree for me is a degree for all of us and I'm so grateful for every bit of it.

What is one piece of advice you would give to current first generation students? 

To all current first generation students, make sure to thank the people who worked hard and made sacrifices to get you to where you are right now. Show gratitude and share the experience with them, they deserve it.