Trailblazer: First-generation College Student Shares Her Inspiring Journey
Cristina Zapata, Meagan Jarmuz, Division of Student Affairs, Roosevelt University / The Center / October 23, 2023
In the framework of higher education, there are stories that stand out as pillars of optimism, persistence, and perseverance. These stories include those of first-generation college students, who began their journey to higher education with nothing more than a dream and a strong will. Despite the challenges they faced, they persisted, broke down barriers, and achieved remarkable success.
We have the privilege of showcasing an amazing Roosevelt University alum in this blog who, in addition to being a first-generation college student, was inspired to return to her alma mater to directly support the next generation of first-generation college students. She shares with us the power of resilience, the importance of breaking barriers, and the boundless potential that lies within every first-generation college student. Her story will remind us that education is not just a means to an end, but a catalyst for personal and societal transformation.
Meet Our Trailblazer
Yolanda Flowers is an inspirational woman who comes from a community where attending school was not common. Yolanda was convinced that earning a college degree would inspire her community, and she discovered a path to her future at Roosevelt University.
"I wanted to represent change for my community and ultimately show them that there is access to all the resources needed to create a successful path available," Yolanda said.
The Challenges Faced
According to Yolanda, her unique path included wanting to drop out of school after a month because she didn't feel represented by her teachers or classmates as an African-American woman at first, as well as being older than most of the other students, and having a low socio-economic status.
“It’ll get easier, I can’t tell you when, but it will be worth it,” my professor told me; and, she was correct! This encouragement from a fellow first-generation professor inspired me to keep going”, Yolanda shared while discussing her decision to continue past these challenges.
Advice for Current First-Generation College Students
Yolanda's unique path led to many ups and downs, but she can say that Roosevelt University provided her with a lot of unexpected support. Yolanda was awarded several scholarships, and she believes that her determination and clarity in her goals were the key to her success.
The Importance of Representation
Being a first-generation student has given Yolanda the knowledge that her accomplishment will benefit those who are similar to her. One piece of advice she gives is, “To never compare yourself to other students because we all follow different paths, schedules, and directions in life.”
In the end, Yolanda remarked, "I was going to school to get my education, but it was much more than that, I found hope, support from my professors, and made lifelong friends; I found community. Ultimately, I returned to Roosevelt now as a professional who is working with the university and paying it forward by supporting students in their college journeys”.
Yolanda will continue to inspire first-generation college students by leading the planning committee for Roosevelt University’s First Gen Celebration. Yolanda’s story ultimately demonstrates how education can change lives and pave the way to inspire others on their path to success.
