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What drives a first-generation college student to not only enroll but thrive? Join us on First Gen FM as we shine a spotlight on the inspiring stories of Dr. Martina Martin, Catherine Johnson, Ashlee Kocina Young, Wendy Beesley, and Dr. Jennifer Sutton from First Gen Forward. Guests share their personal journey of either discovering her own first-gen identity, and the beliefs that fuel their unwavering commitment to supporting this student population.

Dive into the world of FirstGen Forward (formerly the Center for First-Generation Student Success), a nonprofit entity now leading the charge in providing critical resources and strategic programs to institutions. We explore how measuring belonging and preparing students holistically for life after graduation can dramatically improve retention and completion rates. Our conversation unveils the transformative power of data-informed decision-making, emphasizing how it can dismantle barriers and reveal hidden supports crucial for first-gen success. Discover the importance of simplifying processes like FAFSA and using asset-based language to create a more inclusive educational environment.

You'll find yourself in a vibrant community of the First Gen Forward Network as you listen, and learn about the community where over 400 institutions collaborate to empower first-gen students. Hear firsthand accounts of the invaluable learning and connections formed within this diverse network, and learn how you can get involved, even if your institution isn't yet on board.

Opportunities abound at upcoming NASPA conferences in March and the Student Success in Higher Education conferene in June.

As your host, I'm eager to hear from you. Connect with me at [email protected] to share your stories and insights, and let's continue this journey together, fostering a platform for dialogue and innovation in first-generation student support.

FirstGen Forward

Established in 2017 as the Center for First-generation Student Success, an initiative of NASPA and The Suder Foundation, the organization has grown and become a collaborative effort across the entire higher education system, working directly with hundreds of institutions that serve millions of first-generation students. In August, 2024, the organization became an independent non-profit under the name FirstGen Forward.

Website: https://firstgen.naspa.org

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/firstgenforward/

Email: [email protected]

Podcast guests

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You can find me at https://www.firstgenfm.com/ and on LinkedIn. My email is [email protected].

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What happens when a first-generation college graduate transforms her experiences into a powerful memoir? Dr. La'Tonya "LT" Rease Miles joins me on FirstGen FM to share how a simple conversation with her daughter Zoe and an inspiring interview with Erica Alfaro sparked the creation of her memoir, "Smart Girl." LT describes how writing allowed her to reflect on pivotal moments and gain deeper insights into her own story. Her narrative unfolds through thematic chapters, capturing the essence of first-gen challenges and triumphs that shaped her journey.

LT shares about reconnecting with influential figures from her past, each playing a crucial role in her self-discovery. From her experiences on the cheerleading team to the guidance of Coach Marsh, LT reveals how these connections challenged her insecurities and helped redefine her understanding of identity and support. With a disciplined writing process that spanned over two years, LT not only tells her story but also pays homage to those around her, highlighting the unique dynamics of first-generation education pathways.

Exciting things are on the horizon with the upcoming launch of the "Smart Girl" podcast in 2025. LT is teaming up with Professor Samantha Pinto to dig deeper into the memoir's themes, promising engaging conversations with insightful guests. As the book prepares for release, LT enthusiastically invites listeners to engage with her on social media, share ideas for podcast topics, and even suggest cities for her upcoming tour. With hopes to visit Boston and dreams of catching a Celtics game, LT is ready to connect with the first-gen community, sparking a vibrant dialogue around the her story and the stories that define us together.

For more about La'Tonya "LT" Rease Miles

https://www.latonyareasemiles.com/about

https://www.linkedin.com/in/latonyareasemiles/

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Lisa Rivera, the  director of First Generation Student Initiatives at Suffolk University, joins us to share her journey from being a first-gen student in Florida to making her mark in higher education. Listen as Lisa recounts how the AVID program and her mentor, Ms. Dennison, were pivotal in her path to Allegheny College. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship and supportive educational programs, sparking curiosity about how such resources shape first-generation students' academic journeys and beyond.

Transitioning from college to career can be a daunting experience, especially for first-gen students. Lisa opens up about her early professional hurdles, from working multiple jobs to make ends meet to the unexpected challenges she faced at a temp agency. Her narrative highlights themes of resilience and adaptability as she navigated job hunting and career building without prior internships. Through Lisa's experiences, we explore how first-gen students can leverage curiosity and a willingness to learn in creating their professional paths, even when things don't go as planned.

More about Lisa Rivera
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamriv/
[email protected]

Lisa Rivera, EdM, is the inaugural Director of First-Generation Student Initiatives, joining the Center for First-Generation & Educational Equity at Suffolk University in November 2022, where she leads initiatives to enhance programming and support for first-generation students, faculty, and staff.

A first-generation college graduate and AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) alumna, Lisa earned a bachelor’s degree in Communication Arts and Women’s Studies from Allegheny College in 2014 and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with a concentration on Higher Education Administration from Boston University in 2019.

Previously, Lisa spent seven years at Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, where she advanced through roles in admissions, student affairs, and career development. She supported the student lifecycle from recruitment to career entry, including facilitating admissions cycles, coordinating student affairs and student organization programming, and delivering career readiness guidance, including teaching lectures on preparing for career and residency interviews and leading an annual career fair, integrating student support with strategic planning to enhance retention and success.

An advocate for first-generation students, Lisa has co-advised Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) chapters, the national honor society for first-generation college students, at both Boston University and Suffolk University, participated in allyship and developed championing first-generation programming at both universities for faculty and staff audiences, and presented at the NASPA national conference on support for first-generation graduate and professional students and the BACHA’s local conference on career readiness for higher education professionals.

With a commitment to equity and access, Lisa continues to foster community and create pathways for first-generation success inside and outside of the classroom.

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You can find me at https://www.firstgenfm.com/ and on LinkedIn. My email is [email protected].

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In this episode, I share a few takeaways on post-election landscape with insights from Ted Mitchell and Michelle Asher Cooper from a recent webinar: Post-Election Outlook: What to Watch in Higher Education. I talk about what I heard from these experts from the American Council on Education and the Lumina Foundation, and the potential impact of the new Republican administration. They focused on possible shifts in accreditation standards and their critical implications for financial aid. I share insights from this thought-provoking webinar, featuring experts who are cautiously optimistic about navigating these changes while maintaining the resilience of educational institutions. 

Join me, Jen Schoen, as we question the media's portrayal of higher education value and confidence, highlighted by surprising poll results where 90% of Americans still hold higher education in high regard. We discuss the dire consequences of small and regional college closures on first-gen and low-income students. Michelle Asher Cooper's emphasis on listening to communities and scrutinizing congressional leadership priorities offers a hopeful outlook, even as the challenges loom large. This episode is a must-listen for educators and students preparing to face the evolving educational landscape.

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Join us for a conversation with Mike Wysocki, a first-generation graduate,  who reveals how he turned hurdles into stepping stones on his journey to success. From a working-class suburb of Boston to the broader horizons of UMass Amherst, Mike candidly shares how a change in major from engineering to sociology opened unexpected doors. He talks about the critical role of attitude and determination in carving out a career path, and why he chose the business world over social work. This episode offers valuable insights into the winding road of career choices and the importance of exploring opportunities to find what  fits.

Curious about how effective communication can set you apart in the job market? Mike shares his experience of being published in various magazines, and how it became a unique asset during job interviews, underscoring the power of accomplishments on a resume. We also discuss the motivation behind his book, "Careers by the People," and his aim to guide first-generation, low-income individuals in balancing financial success with personal fulfillment. Mike emphasizes the necessity of understanding teams and collaboration to become an indispensable asset in any organization.

In our discussion, we explore the unpredictable journeys people take to find success and fulfillment, from unconventional career paths to the importance of mentorship and real-world experience. Mike shares anecdotes of individuals who broke the mold and found joy in unexpected fields, and stresses the critical role of making informed career choices. If your students are facing similar challenges, he offers encouragement and practical advice on how to harness available resources like faculty and alumni networks. Connect with Mike through his website, LinkedIn, and YouTube channel for more inspiration and guidance on navigating your own career journey.

Mike Wysocki

After toiling in corporate America for 30+ years, Mike Wysocki finally put his sociology degree to work by researching a variety of occupations and collected hundreds of responses from industry veterans then choosing the best 101 for the award-winning and best-selling book Careers By the People.

www.careersbythepeople.com

www.linkedin.com/in/mike-wysocki-021679/

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Let's talk about the strengths first-generation students bring to campus based on a research article and an ASHE research presentation.

Join me, Jen Schoen, as we challenge the deficit narrative and uncover the  qualities that these students contribute to higher education. As part of First-Generation Student Celebration Week, I draw from two articles and the principles of positive psychology to spotlight the resilience, grit, and ambition that define these students. We’ll reveal how these college students' unique experiences and independence equip them for college success, even as we acknowledge the barriers they face without the parental guidance often available to their continuing-education peers.

Let's continue to reframe our understanding of student success through an asset lens as we discuss how first-generation college students’ strategic thinking and self-reliance are worth recognizing and celebrating.  I'll conclude with two actionable insights to enhance support systems and foster an equitable learning environment. By the end of this episode, you’ll see how embracing these strengths can uplift the first-generation students and the student community. Let's celebrate their contributions and explore ways to empower the next generation—together.

Articles:

Minicozzi, L., & Roda, A. (2020). Unveiling the hidden assets that first-generation
students bring to college. Journal for Leadership and Instruction, Spring 2020.

Garrison, N. J., & Gardner, D. S. (2012, November 15). Assets first-generation
college students bring to the higher education setting. Paper presented at the
Association for the Study of Higher Education (ASHE) Annual Conference, Las
Vegas, NV.

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You can find me at https://www.firstgenfm.com/ and on LinkedIn. My email is [email protected].

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Discover three secrets to finding scholarships tailored for first-generation students that are ready for our students to use. Join me, Jen Schoen, as I share tools like College Greenlight and Scholarship Owl to discover opportunities that fit student's background and aspirations. We'll talk about asking for help from teachers, advisors, and counselors, and finding the treasure troves on rival high schools' websites.

This episode is not just about resources; it's an open invitation to connect and collaborate. I'm eager to hear from listeners who are working on impactful initiatives or support programs for first-generation college students. Share your stories and successes with me at [email protected], and let's continue to build a community that uplifts and empowers our students. Together, we'll break down barriers and help every first-gen student achieve their college dreams.

Other websites for scholarships I mentioned:
Fastweb.com
Scholarship Junkies

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Brianna Logan's journey from her parents' Caribbean roots to becoming a successful CEO is inspiring. In our latest episode, Brianna, a first-generation college graduate, shares her personal story of overcoming challenges and finding her path in the professional world. Her experience navigating college and her career without a clear roadmap highlights the power of mentorship and career coaching.

As the founder and CEO of First Gen Evolve, Brianna is committed to supporting first-generation professionals in the workforce. During her time at an ed tech company, she discovered her passion for leading Employee Resource Groups and empowering others through professional development initiatives. Brianna discusses the importance of networking and shares practical advice from her mentors, which helped her overcome initial challenges and build valuable connections. Her insights emphasize the need for students to make the most of college resources to hone their networking skills and prepare for their future careers.

Brianna also delves into the crucial support systems and resources that can aid first-gen students in their transition into the workforce. Through First Gen Evolve, she collaborates with universities and employers to offer mentorship, workshops, and programs focusing on workplace diversity, leadership, and mental health. By spotlighting the unique strengths of first-generation graduates, such as their work ethic and eagerness to learn, Brianna underscores the importance of creating inclusive environments. Her message of dreaming big, taking risks, and effective networking provides invaluable guidance for both students and professionals on their career journeys.

Brianna Logan contact information and bio

https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannalogan/
On YouTube and Instagram as FirstGen Evolve

Brianna Logan is the Founder and CEO of FirstGen Evolve LLC, a B2B consulting company that provides professional development and mentorship services to first-generation employees to help them navigate the workforce and succeed in their careers. 

As a first-generation college graduate, Brianna is passionate about creating initiatives to help people from underserved communities feel heard, seen, and valued. This passion started during her junior year at her Alma mater, Skidmore College where she co-founded a student club on campus for Caribbean students (many of whom were first-gen students) like her. 

Through FirstGen Evolve, Brianna continues to fulfill that passion by supporting first-generation employees on their professional journeys. When Brianna is not running her business, you can find her mentoring college students in NYC with the City Tutors or leading a group of ninety-five Black Employees at Renaissance Learning where 

she hosts professional development events for them on topics including but not limited to mental health, imposter syndrome, and personal branding. 

Please help others find this podcast by rating and reviewing wherever you listen!

You can find me at https://www.firstgenfm.com/ and on LinkedIn. My email is [email protected].

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Discover the journey of Selena Meints, the First Generation Initiatives Coordinator at the University of Missouri, as she shares her story from being a first-generation college student to leading a first-gen initiative on campus. Selena shares her journey navigating the college experience without a traditional support system, which ignited her passion for supporting other first-gen students. She details her transition from working in disability services to creating a first-gen program from scratch at Mizzou, emphasizing the vital roles of data collection, listening tours, and securing campus-wide support.

In this episode, we explore the complexities of building and maintaining first-gen programs at a large university. Selena provides insights into collaborating with various campus units during welcome week and the strategies she’s implementing to boost first-gen student participation in high-impact practices: from applying for grants to integrating into committees, her efforts focus on bridging gaps and enhancing the sense of belonging for first-gen students at Mizzou. Learn about the significant challenges and the unique characteristics of these students, and how understanding campus culture plays a crucial role in addressing their needs.

Finally, we delve into the transitions first-gen students face as they move from college to professional life. Selena discusses the importance of lifelong support, including logistical challenges like healthcare and retirement planning. Initiatives like the Tri-Alpha Honor Society are highlighted as ways to celebrate and support first-gen achievements, fostering an inclusive environment that involves families, allies, and alumni. With plans for future growth and community engagement, Selena's vision aims at improving graduation rates and building a robust support network for first-gen students, faculty, and staff alike. Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from Selena’s ambitious plans and dedication to creating a thriving first-gen community.

Selena's Bio and contact
[email protected]
www.linkedin.com/in/selena-meints
https://firstgeneration.missouri.edu/

First-Generation Initiatives Coordinator

University of Missouri-Columbia

Selena Meints currently serves as the newly founded First-Generation Initiatives Coordinator at University of Missouri-Columbia. The Office of First-Generation Initiatives supports, celebrates, and advocates for first-generation students and connects them to resources at Mizzou, with special emphasis in High-Impact Practices. The office mission helps to promote academic excellence and sense of belonging of First-Generation students from enrollment to graduation.

Meints also resides on several committees/appointments at the university: Chair of the First-Generation Student Success Standing Advisory Board, a Title IX and Equity Resolution hearing panelist, the Undergraduate Research Pathways Working Group and on the SAC Education Award Review Committee.

In her previous role as The Director of Student Accessibility Resources (OSAR) at William Woods University in Fulton, Missouri she was responsible for the implementation of student accommodations to create equitable access for all Undergraduate and Graduate students. Meints served as Chair of the Employee Enrichment Committee, Co-chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and

member of the CARE committee. Meints joined William Woods University a

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First-generation students have unique needs as they navigate their transition from college to their first professional career. Join me as I chat with Cesar Margarito, whose transformative journey from a small Mexican town to working on his a doctoral degree at the University of Southern California sheds light on the experiences of first-generation professionals. Cesar's passion for education and student support is apparent as he shares personal stories about his family influences, educational pursuits, and his pivotal involvement with TRIO programs. His doctoral research dives into the challenges these new professionals face, offering insights to help shape how we support first-generation students in their career paths.

In this episode, we expand on the importance of career exploration for college students, especially when it comes to understanding organizational culture. Cesar and I discuss everything from the power of networking and the role of career services to practical strategies like mentoring and leveraging existing networks. Through anecdotes about teaching professional etiquette and more, we underscore the nuances of career readiness. Whether you're an educator, a student, or someone passionate about supporting first-generation professionals, this episode has valuable advice and actionable strategies to help bridge the gap between education and a successful career.

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You can find me at https://www.firstgenfm.com/ and on LinkedIn. My email is [email protected].