Amy Segura '26

Major: Biology

What was it like being among the first in your family to go to college? 

Being one of the first in my family to attend college is extremely gratifying, yet challenging. I reflect how far I've come and how much I've grown, and I am just so grateful to have had the opportunity to pursue higher education. Of course, attending college out of state as a FGen student comes with its own hardships; I often miss home, my family, and navigating college isn't the easiest task. I am very fortunate to have such a supportive family because when I feel like I am not capable, my family is there to tell me that I am. It is my biggest goal to make my family proud, and have my parents see the fruits of all the love, support, and hard work that they showed me pay off. 

What does it mean for you personally to be a part of the FGEN community and, specifically, to be a FGEN student ambassador? 

To be a part of the FGEN community means to be a part of something bigger than yourself. You are now a part of a community who you share common ground with, and also are so willing to uplift our peers. It means having a sense of belonging during times when it may feel the opposite. It's really important to have a community to anchor you through your college experience, and that is what the FGen program has done for me. I am looking forward to being a mentor and ambassador because I will be able to help students who I related to in my first year, and hopefully we can continue the cycle for many students to come. 

What is your advice to FGEN students at UP who are facing challenges? 

I think it is crucial to give yourself grace, this is a completely new experience, and it’s okay to feel lost at times. As a matter of fact, you are not the only one, there are many students who are navigating college as well. Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and ask for help when you need it- there are so many resources on campus! Lastly, but something that a lot of FGen students experience, are feelings of isolation. Remember that you earned your place here, and you deserve to be here despite the hardships you may face. 

Did a mentor play a role in your experience? 

I didn't have a FGEN mentor to help guide me, but I did have faculty who I was able to talk to. Whether it was help with assignments or just someone who I could lean on when I was struggling, it was a great help. Sometimes, we forget professors want us to succeed and it's scary to get to know them, but they are always willing to help if you just talk to them. 

What resources have been significant, meaningful or helpful for you so far during your UP experience? 

The most helpful resource for me was the co-pilot tutoring. I think sometimes it can be a little intimidating asking a professor for help, or sometimes you just need to be taught something in a different way. Having someone who is a peer and has taken that class help me with difficult topics, made me feel more comfortable asking for help. It gave me that extra support that I needed, and allowed me to find the root of confusion either with the tutor or later with the professor.