First-Gen Alumni: Ángel De Jesús (Oakes '19, Sociology)

Background: As an undergraduate, I was a transfer and re-entry student. I went to Mission College in Santa Clara, California. Before attending college, I was hooked on drugs and alcohol; perdido en el vicio. At 25, I decided a change was necessary; I enrolled in community college. At Mission college, I joined the Puente program and quickly adapted to my new environment. My struggle was my addictions, but fortunately, I received bien arto apollo from staff and faculty at Mission College. My experience with community college was my first ever positive experience with our education system. The latter made me stay.

What motivated me to go to college: My motivation to attend college was actually to get sober. I had tried 12-step programs before and failed, but I had a homeboy who went to Mission and spoke to me of all the support he received. When I wanted to get off the streets I decided to try it out and see if I could use school as a way to focus on my sobriety. I was right, quickly I felt supported and developed my support cast.

What's the biggest challenge you encountered as a first-gen student and how did you overcome it? The biggest challenge I faced was the deficit narrative attached to "first-generation" students. Many times I was spoken to from a perspective of resources I didn't have or my parents who were unable to be supportive academically. When I would spoke up to faculty, staff, or other students, I was always met with, “But Ángel, what we are saying is that you don't…”. This was very dismissive and difficult to deal with. I personally looked at being first-generation as something empowering such as, I made it to the university, I graduated top of my class from community college, and did it all despite my background or the first-generation title. I believe that being first-generation helped me stay hungry for my success. Sure, I was new to this battleground, but I wasn't new to uphill battles. Mis jefitos taught me how to network, how to advocate for myself, supported me by ofreciendo me un taco, consejos, amor, and overall believing in me.

How has your background helped you? It helped me maintain focus. It supported me when I wanted to give up. I would remind myself of the alternative; las calles.

What would you tell my first-year self now? I would tell myself to be more vocal about how I view the "first-generation" narrative.

What was the best thing about your college experience? My best experience was the connections I made and the ability to do research as an undergraduate. Many told me I couldn't, so I defied that odd as well. Also, the lasting friendships and long-term relationships I developed with staff and faculty. 

How being a first-generation student has influenced me: Being first-gen has helped me look at people's toolboxes and the strengths they already have. I don't look at what they don't have, I try to help people further develop what may need polishing instead.