First Generation Forward with June

Transcript

Okay. Let’s hear from June, a first generation college student from Kenya who found a community with students who share common identities. Cal State Fullerton is deemed a FirstGen Forward institution providing various support services to those who are first in their family to go to college. June, tell us all about the resources and support you’ve found on campus. Take it away.

– Thanks, Alex. I’ve always had the desire to serve my community. I was born and raised in Kenya, and opportunities like attending a university were limited and seemed out of reach. Upon migrating to the United States, I realized that seeking a higher education would be a key step to achieving my goal. Navigating through the American College system as a first gen student was definitely a challenge, but with a strong support system and community at Cal State Fullerton, it all became achievable. With support from programs such as I Am First, there are plenty of resources that include career readiness, mentoring and coaching, networking opportunities and scholarships. Cal State Fullerton is recognized as a FirstGen Forward institution offering so many opportunities and resources for first gen students like myself. Another challenge was being in a new place where I also had to find a new space where my background was being represented. The African American Resource Center introduced me to organizations such as the Black Student Union, the Nigerian Student Association, and the Black Business Student Association. These organizations create a community of belonging, cultivate leadership and advance social justice here at Cal State Fullerton. My goal has always been to serve my community. I want to work in the healthcare field and learn the foundations of our healthcare systems. Cal State Fullerton’s Public Health Department offers courses that help guide me through the diverse paths in which my degree could help a community. The professors, also being public health professionals, have given me ample advice on these fields in which I will hopefully build a career in. Aiming to become a certified health educator and later obtain my master’s in public health, focusing in maternal and child health. All these goals and aspirations are accompanied with a great support system from my community here at Cal State Fullerton. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.

– June, thank you for sharing your story. Your involvement in your various Titan communities is inspiring. With over 32% of the student population identifying as first generation college students, Cal State Fullerton is certainly a FirstGen Forward institution. Take care. June.