First-generation students are often met with unique challenges, whether it be dealing with systemic barriers or balancing their personal responsibilities along with their academic goals and social life. The stories of Black leaders who have broken barriers in their industries offer powerful inspiration, showing what is truly possible when resilience and determination meet opportunity. In this blog, we spotlight influential Black figures whose journeys reflect the determination, creativity, innovation, and courage that first-generation students embody.
STEM: Dr. Mae Carol Jemison
Mae Carol Jemison became the first Black woman to travel in space in 1992 when she was the Mission Specialist on the Space Shuttle Endeavour. As the first Black woman to travel in space, Dr. Mae Jemison overcame significant challenges to succeed in a field historically dominated by white men. A first-generation college student from a family that valued education, Jemison embodies resilience and determination. For first-gen students in STEM, her journey is a testament to perseverance and breaking stereotypes.
Key Insight for First-Gen Students: Don’t be afraid to seek out mentorship, embrace curiosity, and advocate for diversity in underrepresented fields.
Resource: Explore organizations like NSBE (National Society of Black Engineers) for support and community. If you want to find a Mentor to talk to and explore the path they took when it came to classes or even becoming active on Campus, use Mentor Match!
Literature and Media: Ta-Nehisi Coates
Author and journalist Ta-Nehisi Coates uses his platform to explore systemic racism and its impact on society. His book Between the World and Me speaks to the complexities of being Black in America. Coates’ narrative of self-education and reflection resonates with first-gen students who may be navigating new academic spaces.
Key Insight for First-Gen Students: Binghamton University offers microcredentials which have a clear purpose of preparing students for the workforce, helping students stand out to employers, bridging to larger credentials, supporting life-long learning opportunities for professionals, and enhancing professional skills through continuing education.
Resource:
Business: Ursula Burns
The first Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company as CEO of Xerox, Ursula Burns grew up in a low-income background and was the first in her family to attend college. Her story highlights how determination, education, and mentorship can elevate first-gen students to leadership roles.
Key Insight for First-Gen Students: it is important to build networks and embrace opportunities to lead, even when the path isn’t clear.
Resource: The Fleishman Center helps students work on their LinkedIn profile and gives advice on how to start connecting with fellow students and even Alumni.
Education and Activism: Dr Kimberlé Crenshaw
A scholar and civil rights advocate, Dr. Crenshaw coined the term “intersectionality,” which addresses overlapping systems of oppression. First-gen students, particularly those from marginalized communities, often live at the crossroads of these systems. Her work underscores the importance of understanding and addressing inequities in education and beyond.
Key Insight for First-Gen Students: Your perspective is powerful so use it to advocate for systemic change.
Resource: Watch Crenshaw’s TED Talk, The Urgency of Intersectionality, to deepen your understanding of systemic challenges. You can also join organizations on campus that put an emphasis on culture and education such as Corazoncitos and JUMP.
Overall, First-generation students can bring unique strengths to every field, including adaptability, resilience, and the ability to bridge cultures. By learning from Black leaders who have transcended barriers, first-generation students can find inspiration to overcome their challenges and build equitable futures.
