College as a First-Generation Woman
I was the first woman in my family to go to college, and I won’t lie, I felt the pressure. My family never pressured me to get good grades; instead, they were always there to cheer me on and remind me to make the most of the incredible opportunity that attending college was. I often felt homesick, and whenever local students went home, I wished I were closer to mine. However, by making friends from different countries at UMU, I found a connection to my Mexican roots through sharing my culture with others. I cooked for them and shared what characterizes us as Mexicans.
Career Path after Graduation
When I graduated, I was unsure about what kind of job I wanted. I started working at a pawn shop under an OPT. After my OPT ended, I had to return home to Mexico. I wanted to go to graduate school, but I didn’t have the financial means. So, I decided to start my own business, importing products from the USA to Mexico. I used these products in a small baking business I started, where I sold homemade cookies. I then developed an interest in programming and web design, which led me to Canada, where I am currently studying Computer Systems Technology.
Advice to Prospective First-Generation Students
To the Mexican community and the broader Hispanic and Latino communities, I'd like to share a piece of advice my dad always tells me: “Make things happen.” Never doubt yourself. While the thought of going to college might seem daunting and intimidating, remember that you don't have to go just to prove something to others. Go to prove to yourself how far you can go. Therefore, don't question applying to and attending college.