First-Gen College Students: The Decision to Continue Education After Graduation

I cannot believe that I am a senior and will be graduating in the spring. If you had asked me four years ago what my future would hold, I would have had no idea. Like many of you, throughout the last year, I have contemplated my next move in life. For a while, I felt as though I was in this never-ending ongoing game of chess, where I sat and played the role of the Queen. Being able to make any choice and move in the direction I saw fit. I have all these possibilities before me, but am unsure of where to go. Many of you have also experienced this scenario, whether you are a first-generation student or not. However, I decided to write this to shed light on how first-generation college students grapple with this decision, and share advice to those students who are unsure of their next move.

First-Gen Students:

Navigating through college can be intimidating, filled with uncertainty, and extremely difficult. This is especially true for first-generation college students. We, as a society, don't want to talk about it and have open discussions about this, but this is the reality. College does not come easy for everyone, and that's not because individuals lack intelligence. The struggle emerges usually because of other factors going on. It is hard enough to get through undergrad while figuring things out on your own faced with yet another opportunity that you may not feel prepared for. However, the obstacles we have overcome and the resiliency we have shown, as a result, is an attribute that allows us to contribute to not only educational institutions, but to the world. Being the first in your immediate family to graduate from college is by no means an easy feat; it is an accomplishment you should be proud of. This task is easier said than done. Despite the obstacles you faced and the presumed disadvantage you were at, you were able to succeed.

Obstacles:

Of course, there are numerous reasons why someone, a first-generation college student or not, would be wary of continuing their education following graduation and receiving a graduate degree. I understand that graduate or professional school may be an unpleasant thought. Education after graduation is starting the navigation process all over again, but in a new environment on an even more rickety ship in highly treacherous waters. I hate to be the one to tell you this, but this is true. But just because something is difficult, unfamiliar, or frightening should not be the reason to choose to not continue with your education if that step is going to get you to where you want to go! 

Personal Experience:

I’ve learned that the most challenging things can produce the best experiences. Trust me when I tell you that college has not been a smooth sailing experience. I faced severe storms that made me question the stability of the path I was on. I faced high winds that sent me in the opposite direction from where I needed to go. I faced pirates, also known as other obstacles that at any given time would function to disrupt and throw my educational path into disarray. However, through the process, I learned more about myself, what I want out of my life, and the purpose education will serve in achieving my goals. Consequently, I experienced rainbows, the most beautiful of sunsets, and the waters became calm. I was able to see the value in overcoming obstacles, and realized how many good people there are in the world that want to help and support you on your voyage. All you have to do is take the first step and set sail, and all the rest will follow.

My Next Step:

With all that in mind, I have chosen to apply to law school as I believe it’s the next logical step for me in the journey of achieving my goals. I aspire one day to work in a career that allows me to explore and eventually remedy problems existing within the interconnections of law and society and law and government. Due to personal experience, and my background in interdisciplinary studies, I have grown to see the legal system as a force capable of making the necessary changes to make our world a better and safer place. Even though I see law school as an opportunity and platform for me to further my education and reach my goals, I would be lying if I told you I am not fearful. Applying to law school has not been without challenges, fear, and immense anxiety. Just because I have found meaning within the struggles accompanying the identity of a first-gen college student doesn't mean that I still am not actively navigating through the process too. 

Conclusion:

If you are a first-generation college student, I ask that you think about your future by looking at your past before making any impulsive decisions. Before you decide to end your education based on the fear and uncertainty because of the stress education can put on your life based on your status, think back and assess how you have gotten where you are today. Maybe this recollection and inquiry can bring attention to experiences you may have overlooked and underestimated. Or after reading this, you may have solidified your decision to not continue with your education, which is perfectly fine! Ideally, this discussion is to help students who are conflicted about their next move concerning their status. Perhaps you didn't share the same obstacles as I have, and weren't able to discover that meaning that my experience elicited. Regardless, know that in this complicated and complex decision, you are not alone! Don't be afraid of difficulty and embrace the path that will lead you to be successful. Best of luck! To my fellow first-generation college students, I am rooting for you.

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