Celebrating first-generation voices
By Mary Horan and Leah Steele
November 8, 2024
What does being FirstGen mean to you? Hear from some of our remarkable Brandeis students.
Held each year around November 8, First-Generation College Celebration recognizes the inspiring stories and achievements of first-generation college students.
Since 2017, a diverse coalition of higher education institutions, corporations, government officials, non-profits, and K-12 schools have come together to elevate the voices of the first-generation community, shining a light on their unique journeys and contributions.
At Brandeis, the Gen One Network fosters a supportive environment for first-gen students through community-building events, advocacy and resource-sharing. Each student’s voice reflects resilience and determination, illustrating what it means to be a first-gen student at Brandeis. Join us in celebrating their achievements and inspiring a community rooted in diversity and shared success.
Brandeis Stories asked students what being part of the Gen One Network means to them.
“To me, being a first generation college student means that you're the first in your family to do something. That means you're breaking barriers. You're making change not only for your family, but for other people as well.”
Mina Rowland ‘25
“It's challenging. But you grow a lot, and you get to learn a lot of things about yourself and the world in the process.”
Gustavo Nascimento ’27
“I'm a first generation college student. To me, that means being vulnerable and being open to learning from people.”
Musa Albalakhi ’26
“I represent a culture — a group of people, family, friends — that kind of all poured resources into me.”
Samuel Hadego ‘27
