The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee in the College of Education & Human Development hosted a First-Generation College Students' Professional Pathways panel discussion and mixer for students on March 14. Students learned about navigating college and pathways after graduating as first-generation college students.

"As a first-generation student myself and the only daughter of Pilipino immigrants, who grew up in a low-income household, I know first-hand that the first-generation student experience doesn't stop at college," Rose Ann Gutierrez, Ph.D., committee co-chair and assistant professor of equity and diversity in education said. "Navigating career opportunities after graduation is the next challenge for first-generation students. It's important for our students to hear the stories of folks who have walked a similar path as them and have graduated to see that multiple possibilities exist for them forward."

The panelists were first-generation students and are alumni of the University. The panelists included: 

• Jillian Way, child and family specialist for Community Services Agency
• Ana Sanchez, elementary school educator for Washoe County School District
• Nisa Butler, re-engagement facilitator for Washoe County School District
• Rafael Cerrillo-Neri, high school educator for Washoe County School District
• Michelle Cruz, program manager for the Nevada First-Gen Network

Gina Delgado, Ed.D., director of the College’s Student Success Center, was the moderator. Raúl Olmo Fregoso Bailón, Ph.D., assistant professor of equity and diversity in education provided Spanish translation to ensure inclusivity and accessibility at the event.

"We decided to have this panel event of first-generation professionals to discuss what happens after graduation since the weight and responsibilities of first-generation students don't stop at the college level," Rose Ann Gutierrez, Ph.D., assistant professor of equity and diversity in education, said. "We also hoped that faculty and staff who attend this event can reflect on their current practices to better support first-generation students, especially as it concerns what post-graduation opportunities look like for these students."

During the event, the panelists emphasized that faculty need to communicate effectively with their students and not assume that they understand what services are available to them. The panelists recommended that faculty reach out to students who aren't attending classes or who have a dip in academic performance. The panelists stressed that building relationships with students and making them feel like they belong is important for student success.

As the panelists reflected on their own journeys, they wanted first-generation students to know they are not alone, especially when facing challenges. 

"I wouldn't be on this college campus without programs such as the Dean's Future Scholars (DFS)," Cerrillo-Neri stated. "I wouldn't be an educator without DFS." Cerrillo-Neri later gave back to the program by becoming a DFS mentor.

"So many times, I needed a break and people I could talk to," Cruz said. "The team at Dean's Future Scholars believed in me." 

Butler mentioned that Jenna Dewar, senior lecturer of human development and family science, was her biggest ally, connecting her with essential services such as childcare and food. 

Additionally, panelists discussed how they navigated opportunities after graduation. 

Sanchez felt fortunate that she received a scholarship through Dorothy Lemelson to help her earn a master's degree in education so she could give back to the community as an educator. "I am very thankful to her. It was a wonderful experience."

Way mentioned that she didn't know what she wanted to do with her degree, but working with professors and advisors helped her along her journey. Cerrillo-Neri suggested networking and helping others. He stated, "It can help open so many doors. Don't worry about what you can get out of it."

In giving advice to first-generation students, Cerrillo-Neri said, "Be brave enough to do what you want to do."

Sanchez switched her major from business to education because she felt that education was recession-proof and that there would always be children who needed educators. She advised students entering the workforce: "Don't burn bridges, be humble and work your way up."

The evening concluded with a mixer with where students could learn more about the panelists while enjoying hors d’oeuvres.

“Thank you to the panelists for sharing your academic and professional journeys with us,” Eleni Oikonomidoy, Ph.D., associate dean and professor of multicultural education, said. “Your words were inspirational, empowering, heartfelt and very impactful. Also, a huge thank you to the DEI Committee for suggesting, organizing and facilitating the creation of this event!” 

The role of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee at the College of Education & Human Development is to promote and support an inclusive and equitable climate in the College for faculty, staff and students. The committee is co-chaired by Ian McGregor, Ph.D., assistant professor of secondary education and Rose Ann Gutierrez, Ph.D. This committee identifies areas of need through structured and ongoing inquiries; makes recommendations to the Dean about policy and practice as they relate to an equitable and inclusive climate; provides venues that address identified needs; and serves as a resource for students and faculty.