Persistence as a First‑Generation Pathway: My Story
Being a first‑generation college student shaped every part of my educational journey. My parents valued education deeply and believed wholeheartedly in the power of a college degree, but like many first‑generation families, we were not financially prepared for what it meant to send a child to college. The FAFSA process was overwhelming for my father. He found the financial questions intrusive, confusing, and uncomfortable, and ultimately, I was left to figure out how to finance my education on my own.
That moment — standing at the intersection of hope and uncertainty — became the foundation of my persistence. I realized early that if I wanted a college education, I would have to build the path myself.
Finding My Own Way
I sought out scholarships wherever I could find them. Not all were academic; many were leadership‑based or community‑driven. I believed deeply in giving back to my community, so I leaned into the roles where I naturally thrived — leading, serving, organizing, and showing up. Those experiences didn’t just help me earn scholarships; they shaped my identity as a leader.
One of my favorite stories to tell is how I went to graduate school to earn my master’s degree on a music scholarship — even though I didn’t play an instrument or sing. I discovered that the College of Education at Austin Peay State University had a scholarship designated for music majors, but no one was applying for it. I saw an opportunity, and I refused to let it go.
I emailed the dean. Then I called. Then I emailed again. And again.
My persistence became impossible to ignore. Eventually, the dean awarded me the scholarship — not only covering my graduate tuition, but also helping me pay my off‑campus rent. That scholarship didn’t just support my education; it supported my parents, who had carried the emotional weight of wanting more for me than they could financially provide.
Building Forward While Working Full‑Time
I continued my education at the University of Memphis on a staff scholarship while working full‑time to earn my doctorate degree. As undergraduate, I was part of one of the last entering classes to receive a minority scholarship, which allowed me to complete my degree without taking out loans. Every step of my academic journey required creativity, advocacy, and relentless determination.
Persistence as a First‑Generation Skill
Looking back, I understand that persistence was not just something I used — it was something I became. First‑generation students often learn to navigate systems that were not built with them in mind. We become problem‑solvers, advocates, and strategists because we have to be.
Get Dr. Nicole Morris’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
Persistence taught me how to:
- advocate for myself even when the answer was “no,”
- navigate complex systems without a roadmap,
- identify opportunities others overlooked,
- build relationships with decision‑makers,
- and keep moving forward even when the path was unclear.
These skills didn’t disappear after graduation. They became the foundation of my leadership. They shaped how I support students, how I mentor emerging leaders, and how I show up in my community. I know what it feels like to be the first, to be unsure, to be overwhelmed, and to keep going anyway. That lived experience is why I am committed to helping others find their way — especially those who are navigating higher education for the first time.
Giving Back as a First‑Generation Leader
My journey is not just about earning degrees without loans. It is about using my story to uplift others. First‑generation students often need someone who understands the emotional and financial realities of their experience. I share my story because it reminds students that:
- you can build a path even when one isn’t provided,
- you can advocate for opportunities that don’t seem designed for you,
- and you can succeed through persistence, creativity, and community.
I am proud to be a first‑generation college student. I am proud of the persistence that carried me through. And I am proud to use that same persistence today to support others — helping them navigate systems, find resources, and believe in what is possible for their future.
