Assistant Professor of Creative Writing, English
Where did you attend college?
University of Michigan, Belmont University, Western Michigan University
What was your college experience like as a first-generation college student?
Navigating college as a first-generation college student was hard! I had lots of question, but nobody in my networks knew the answers to those questions. And since I also didn't have a lot of support on campus, I had to rely on a lot of trial-and-error along the way. What eventually helped me was finding my people, and relying on those people when things got tough.
What message do you have to share with current first-generation college students?
Don't give up! Whenever things are tough, remember your "why," and keep fighting for that. And seek out support wherever possible, whether through professors, campus groups, LEAD, etc. There are so many people who want to see you succeed. Lean on us!