Sierra Merrell '26

Major: Psychology and Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies

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

I was anxious to be the first in my family to go to college and though I found it to be difficult at first, it has been a wonderful experience. It was incredibly challenging to navigate the university and resources on my own, and at times I felt further behind the other students. But with time I found a loving community full of support and I am eternally grateful for all the people who have held my hand through it all. My parents are especially my biggest support because they motivate me every day since I know I'm going to college to live out the dreams they never had the chance to complete. 

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

As a freshman, I found that most of my struggles had to deal with anxiety and feeling lost or alone. Being a first-generation student sometimes means not understanding the “correct” way to go about college life. In all honesty, there is no right way to go through college and we all need help but sometimes first-generation students need a little bit more support. It can be scary to reach out for help so I want to be someone that alleviates that stress or anxiety for other first-generation students. Being an FGEN student ambassador means creating a safe and comfortable space for first-year students to go to. College is an intimidating environment so when you talk to someone that has been in your shoes, it can help you feel like you do belong here. 

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

I think that one of the biggest challenges that first-generation students face is feeling alone or like they don't belong in university. Doing challenging things alone is a difficult and isolating task so always do your best to reach out for support, give yourself grace, and understand that you don't have to have everything figured out in your first year. 

Did a mentor play a role in your experience? 

Yes, I reached out to the FGEN program in the middle of my freshman year and after I got paired with a mentor I felt like I had a place in this university. I felt less alone and it was nice to simply have someone like me to talk to. 

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

I think that the Health and Counseling Center has been a wonderful resource for me. One of the main reasons is because they offer wonderful counseling support. I will always recommend my peers to schedule a therapy appointment, even if you don’t feel like you need one, it is nice to have a consistent person who knows nothing about you to talk about the challenges of college and life with. Another meaningful resource for me has been office hours with my favorite professors. Once you get into the groove of college and find a few professors you really like, I highly recommend going to their office hours. Having a little chat with your favorite professor can strangely be a very healing experience.