First-Gen students, make sure to look for and apply to every scholarship you can. In addition, make sure to say “yes” to new experiences and opportunities here at U-M! You never know who you might meet, or what you might learn. Keep your chin up, you are doing great!
Crystal (Undergraduate Student)
Share Your Story
I am 42 years old and decided to return to college to earn my degree in 2021. I started at St. Clair County Community College with only 6 credits to my name. I took classes year round to earn my associates degree, and because I love reading, writing, and anything to do with books and history, I decided that I wanted to get a PhD in Library Science. I made sure to set up my degree and classes to allow me to work towards my goal. It had always been my dream to attend Michigan, and I was terrified I would never be accepted. I screamed and then promptly burst into happy tears when I received my acceptance letter. Both of my parents are middle-class union workers, and none of my grandparents attended college either. I am the first in my family to work towards a higher degree. I have three beautiful children, and my daughter is currently in her freshman year at Washtenaw. Her goal is to do well enough to transfer to Michigan once she has her degree as well. Every day that I’m on campus, I just walk around smiling. I am so proud and happy to be a Wolverine! Go blue!
Your advice for other First-Gen students
First-Gen students, make sure to look for and apply to every scholarship you can. In addition, make sure to say “yes” to new experiences and opportunities here at U-M! You never know who you might meet, or what you might learn. Keep your chin up, you are doing great!