Unmasking First-Generation College Students and Professionals

ABSTRACT

This reflective piece draws on the experiences of first-generation professionals who identify as immigrants or children of immigrants. Three different narratives are shared in order to illustrate the first-generation college student and career paths we have embarked on as women of color who are first-generation college professionals, and whose identities are shaped by our immigrant backgrounds and working-class upbringings. In addition to sharing our narratives, we identify and discuss common themes relating to finances and family, before providing implications that can inform efforts to empower and support first-generation professionals as they navigate their career trajectories.

KEYWORDS:

• First-generation professionals
• family
• diversity
• inclusion
• working-class