Don Rodriguez reflects on the many gifts his parents provided their children, starting with an unshakable sense of confidence that they would be able to achieve their dreams.
Gifts to a son (click to play)
Dr. Don Rodriguez, Professor of Environmental Science and Resource Management
What do FirstGen students say they wish their parents and family members knew?
- Many FG students see college and graduate school as a way to bring honor and long-term financial stability to their families.
- FG students often pursue higher education because they value their cultural roots and they want to give back to their family and community.
- Your student may sometimes feel guilty about not being able to spend enough time with the family because of school work.
- We asked CI students what they wished their family members knew about their college life. This is what they said:
- “It’s NOT like the movies.”
- “Although we sometimes don’t show it, we are STRESSED!”
- “That classes and workload is NOT like high school.”
- “That before college, I had no prior knowledge of the college experience. There was no guidance or guide map of what to expect. However, I understand that it is hard on the parents as much as it is on the students.”
- “FERPA” (FERPA stands for Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Information about it can be found here.)
- “Yes, college is challenging, but it can be done.”
- “I have no life. Stressful – Time consuming.”
- “Not everyone gets the same financial aid award.”
- “That it’s super hard to balance all the responsibilities but it’s worth it when they see us walk across the stage and get our degree.”
- “That anyone can do it! Their support matters, A LOT.”
