First-generation college students are the first in their families to attend and graduate from a four-year institution. Many face challenges that other students simply do not, from the early stages of applying to schools, to navigating the college journey in a state of the unknown. With these challenges also blooms unique experiences, fueled by resilience, commitment, and determination.
At Curry College, about one-third of the student population is proudly first-generation, with 38% percent coming for the Class of 2026 alone. Faculty and staff also celebrate first-generation status, with some traveling far and wide to pursue higher education.
And while every story is different, all have a resounding theme: being a first-generation student brings an incredible sense of pride for themselves, their families, and their futures.
First-Gen Stories @ Curry
I have a younger sibling who looks up to me, so I’m doing this for them and for my mom who couldn’t finish college when I was born. Being a first-gen makes me feel motivated to push harder in life, and to set an example for younger generations to come.” -Sonise Dorce ‘25, Criminal Justice
Being a first-gen student can be confusing because you go through this process for the first time. I’ve always been independent, and that has helped me through my college journey as a first gen. Being a first-gen student makes me feel proud because I know I made it, and when I have children of my own, I know they’ll have someone to lead the way.” -Cassie Blot ‘24, Nursing
I take a lot of pride in being a first-generation student. I went to high school in Cape Verde and was raised by my grandmother, whose dream was to see me go to college. So, I came to this country to pursue higher education, and it was especially hard not knowing any English, but I never gave up and have now set an example for my own children.” -Suzete Lopes, Student Financial Services
I am a first-generation college student who was also a pregnant and parenting student. Shout out to Doc Wiley from Endicott College for providing me with three consecutive graduate fellowships involving research and student support services for college students with kids. Doc Wiley was my mentor and became my dear friend while completing my doctoral degree with three kids in tow. Four years later my oldest daughter graduated from the same college with her bachelor’s. Being a first-generation student has helped me to become a role and inspiration for my own children. Talk about a family higher ed journey!” -Dr. Nicole Parsons, PAL
I didn’t even know I was a first-gen student until I was 25 years old! College was viewed as really important in my household, and I always believed that my parents graduated college. However, years after I graduated, they shared with me that they did not finish their degrees but didn’t want to tell me that as to not get me discouraged. In a lot of ways, I think that saved me from the pressure of being “the first in college,” but I think I also missed out on a lot of really important resources due to that sense of shame from my parents. There is nothing to be ashamed of being first-gen!” -Marshall Lancey, Assistant Dean of Students
My parents wanted me to chase my dreams and do something that I love, so that I wouldn’t have to struggle like they did when I was growing up. My mom was a teen mom, and my dad joined the military, so things were hard for them. I’m proud to be a first-gen student with a great support system.” -Kelsey Morales ‘23, Early Education and Care
Being a first-gen college student meant breaking the generational chains that impacted my parents and ancestors from having the opportunity of being a college graduate. I have helped to pave the way for future black, queer, women, college graduates!" -Lisa Rodrigues, Interim Dean of Students
I am a first-generation college student whose parents immigrated to this country in 1968 with great dreams. They both wanted a better life for me and strongly encouraged me to chase my dream of becoming a lawyer. Upon finishing my bachelor’s, I switched my passion to higher education and pursued a master’s in education. I have dedicated my personal and professional life to working with young people.” -Jeannette Buntin, AVP, Student Engagement & Diversity
Being a first-gen student back in 2009, there wasn’t a lot of guidance from my college on how to do certain things. Unlike my peers who had parents and families to guide them, I had to navigate these things on my own. Being first-gen to me means having a level of maturity, self-reliance, and an ability to problem solve.” -Ryan Ford, Director of Student Center Facilities & Student Development
