Emir Gonzalez Martinez '26

Major: Biology and Spanish

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

Scary. Even though I had help from counselors in my school and family support, I was scared that I did not know all the things I needed to know about college to feel confident. However, being among the first in my family to go to college also meant a type of responsibility--the responsibility of trying my best so I can help other future FGEN students. 

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

Being part of the FGEN community, a community that helps other students navigate college whether they may be a few or many miles away from home is gratifying. This is because it's nice to be in a community that specifically focuses on how to make the college experience for an FGEN student the smoothest possible when it comes to outlooking resources. I find joy in being able to help other students knowing that I am at least able to help someone and be the person of trust to a student, moreover, being the person I needed when I first started college to an FGEN student. As a FGEN student ambassador I feel hopeful that I will be able to mentor FGEN students into being more comfortable in a new campus. 

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

For every barrier you may face, there is always some kind of solution or change of perspective. Take a deep breath, have a clear mind when stressed and always try your best even when you feel like giving up. There are many people on campus who are here to support you in all types of ways so DO NOT BE AFRAID TO REACH OUT to anyone. 

Did a mentor play a role in your experience? 

A mentor did play a role in my experience and it was so helpful because I was able to ask the questions I was afraid to ask to someone who worked here at UP. They made me feel more comfortable and confident in my decisions. 

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

OFFICE HOURS! Please go to office hours when you are feeling confused in class, I would spend a lot of time in my professors office hours but it would pay off! The tutoring center is an amazing place, and don't feel scared by going to the tutoring center, it does not make you less smart for going (that's at least how I felt at first), but after going one time I started going more frequently because of how helpful it was.