FIRST GENERATION

 Tell us about growing up being the first in your family to be able to go to college.  

Growing up the idea of going to college was heavily instilled in me. My mom made sure that I prioritize my education and understood that she came to the United States with the goal of ensuring I had a better future. School came before any and everything, but I had support. Any resources I needed were always provided and my mom made sure to root for me no matter what I decided to do as a major or in my future career.

Do you feel added pressure /responsibility being the first in your family to attend/ graduate from college?  Explain?

There was definitely more pressure on me as a child and even a teenager. My mother made many sacrifices to get me here and me doing poorly in school would ultimately be a waste of that. However there was balance. I was allowed to express my feelings and communicate any stress I had, but there were times when I felt like everything was riding on me. 

What colleges have you been accepted to?  Which are you waiting on?  Have you decided where you will attend next year?   What is your planned major?  What are your career goals?

I have been accepted to all of the universities I have applied to including UNC Charlotte, Hampton, Queens University of Charlotte, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical University, East Carolina University, etc. I have ultimately decided to attend UNC Charlotte as a Finance major. In the future I hope to work in stocks/investment banking and eventually later own my own Financial Advisement Corporation.

How long have you been at WYWLA? 

I have been at WYWLA since 6th grade.

Who are 1-2 people who championed you throughout your time at WYWLA?  

One person who championed me throughout my time at WYWLA is definitely my mother. She has been my safe place and anchor through any conflicts, adversities, or low points I have been in. She forever continues to be my why. Another person who championed me throughout my time at WYWLA is former assistant principal Elizabeth Hanna. On the main campus I spent much of my free time in her office expressing my feelings and stresses to her and she never failed to coach me through it. She brightened many of my days and helped me learn how to handle hard days by myself. I am forever indebted to her as she helped mold me into both the person and student I am today. 

What are you involved in at WYWLA?  In your community?

At WYWLA I am a Junior Civitan member as well as a representative for the school for the Wake County Student Leadership Council. In the community I work as a customer specialist at a small business named JuiceKeys, and I am a leader in a girls support girls organization called S.A.G.E. (Saving Adolescent Girls Everywhere).

What piece of advice or words of wisdom do you have to WYWLA students who will be the first in their family to attend/ graduate from college?

I constantly live by two phrases which are “when there is a will there's a way” and “you reap what you sow”. It is important to stay committed, find an anchor and a reason to keep going during times where motivation might not be enough. Always remember that it is never for nothing, it may start with stress and hardships but there will be nothing but blessings and happiness in the end.