Mirna Baalbaki
Share Your Story
The beginning of my University of Michigan journey took place from a distant location which spanned thousands of miles. I became the first member of my family to pursue university education in the United States after my childhood in Lebanon. The transition to a new nation and educational framework and fast-paced environment has proven challenging yet brought me great fulfillment. My biology major on the pre-med track requires me to manage extensive study time with my clinical work and regular duties. The exhaustion I experience sometimes gives way to feelings of accomplishment because I understand I create a path for my younger relatives and fulfill the dreams my parents had for me. Being first-gen means more than being “the first.” It means learning to navigate everything on my own while building a future that my family once only dreamed about. At Michigan, I’ve found not just opportunity, but community and belonging.
Your advice for other First-Gen students
Give yourself grace and remember that you’re figuring out so many new things on your own, and that takes courage. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to take a break when you need it! Every single step you take means something. Some days will feel heavy, but remind yourself why you started. You’re not just doing this for a degree — you’re doing it for the people who believed in you, and for the version of yourself that never stopped trying. It’s not easy at all but again ask for help (like i did) and you’ll be fine.