As a first-generation college student and American, I faced various challenges navigating the unfamiliar professional academic environment of college and university life. This experience inspired me to create a resource for others in similar situations—those striving to overcome barriers and achieve their academic dreams and professional goals. This passion project began in November 2022 during my leadership role at NYU. As a new student who initially felt disconnected, I took it upon myself to get involved, which led to numerous leadership roles, active participation in the community, work on various initiatives, and a focus on addressing students' needs.

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Since then, I have compiled hundreds of scholarships and continue to expand the content through a detailed spreadsheet and presentations. Feedback has even sparked ideas about potentially transforming this project into a web series on YouTube.

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The project aims to provide students with:

• Insights into university life

• Information on available resources

• Guidance on academic readiness

• Strategies for personal and professional development

 

Initially, my focus was on multiracial first-generation Latino students interested in arts, leadership, and STEM—particularly those from challenging socioeconomic backgrounds. However, I have since broadened the scope to include individuals of various identities, backgrounds, ages, and various other needs. The goal is to prioritize Inclusion, Diversity, Belonging, Equity, and Accessibility (IDBEA) in all aspects of the project.

 

By sharing knowledge about navigating college life, accessing support services, and overcoming common obstacles, this initiative seeks to empower first-generation and underrepresented students to thrive in higher education and beyond. Below are highlights of my research: the Undergraduate NYU Presentation featuring scholarships and programs for students ranging from high school to college (associate's, bachelor's, master's, and PhD levels).

 

I am currently in the process of developing a graduate presentation to further expand this initiative and address the unique challenges faced by first-generation students pursuing advanced degrees.