First Gen Faculty Spotlight
Zinga Hart
First Gen Staff
College of Communication and Information
As a first-generation college student, I remember leaving college after my first year to help my family. However, my grandmother encouraged me to press on and complete my degree. I realized that I worked too much while attending school and the academic support staff helped me re-prioritize my short-term money goals for my long-term financial dreams. First-gen advocacy is important to me because we can miss a lot of what helps us succeed in college by just not knowing what resources are available. I would recommend asking questions and tapping into resources available to you because you deserve it!.
Martha (Marti) Ann Coles
First Gen Staff
Performing Arts, School of Theater and Dance
What I remember most about my First-Gen journey is that I didn’t take this journey alone. I was a non-traditional student with two children, along with my older sister and her two children, two nieces with their children and other family members who lived in the Allerton Apartments (KSU Family housing dormitories). This was an enriching environment for us and our children because of the opportunity to live among international students, some of which are still friends of mine today. I am glad to say that most of my family members graduated. I would tell a first-generation student to ask questions until you get the answer that will help you. There are so many resources and people available to help you on campus, so seek them out!
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