Would you like to share your story as a First-Generation college student and be spotlighted?

Every journey to success begins with a story, and at the University of Houston, some of the most powerful stories belong to our first-generation college students. These are students who are breaking barriers, defying odds, and paving the way for future generations, often without a roadmap. Yet their voices too often go unheard. It’s time we changed that. 

We invite you to help shine a spotlight on their resilience, determination, and success. By sharing your story across campus, in classrooms, student centers, digital platforms, and beyond. We not only honor your experiences but also inspire others who may be walking a similar path. 

Let’s celebrate the strength of first-gen Cougars and build a more inclusive, supportive university culture together.

Already Graduated: Email us your story at uhcse@cougarnet.uh.edu.

Natasha Willis

Being a first-generation college graduate is an achievement that fills me with immense pride and gratitude. It symbolizes the realization of dreams that were fostered by my family's support. As the first in my family to embark on this educational journey, I faced numerous challenges and uncertainties while trying to raise my own family. I wanted my children to be proud of my accomplishments and to strive for more in their own lives. With resilience and determination, I overcame financial obstacles, navigated unfamiliar educational landscapes, and broke my shell of low confidence, and embraced opportunities to obtain my personal goals. I am inspired by those that have come before me and will be committed to using my education to uplift future generations.

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Tomacina Harris

My parents never finished high school, but they always gave me the tools I needed to be successful. Since they have passed on, I have made it my mission to be the first to graduate college. I know that they are proud.

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Kevin Aguirre

Being the first in my family to attend a U.S. college was a dream come true. My parents had migrated from Mexico, and their hard work inspired me. With determination, I secured scholarships, overcame challenges, and graduated, making my family proud and setting an example for future generations.

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Dilara Yilmaz

I am so proud of to be first gen college student especially when I consider that I just came to this country 5 years ago. My dad who passed away last year had dream of to provide better opportunities for us and I am so happy to maintain his dream and wish.

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Stacey Gonzalez

As the eldest child of immigrants, I embarked on an extraordinary journey, becoming the trailblazer in my family to pursue higher education. Fueled by their sacrifices, I felt the weight of their dreams in each classroom moment. Every lecture and exam marked a step toward the brighter future they envisioned. Navigating higher education as the first in my family posed challenges, but with every obstacle, I drew upon the resilience instilled by my parents. Today, as a college graduate, I stand as a testament to their courage and symbolize unseen possibilities in our family's journey. In this journey, I lived in a world of two cultures: the heritage of my parents and the one in which I was born.