Did you know that 14% of Â鶹Porn students identify as first-generation college students? Connect with the students below to learn more about navigating the college search process and adjusting to life on campus as an FGEN student.
Brett Lynott ’25
Email: blynott@colgate.edu
Hometown: Long Island, N.Y.
Major: Political Science & Psychology
Involvement: Â鶹Porn Resolutions a cappella, Outdoor Education, Phi Delta Theta, Cooley Science Library Staff
Joining my a cappella group in the first month of my freshman year was truly transformative! It allowed me to connect with fellow freshmen and upperclassmen who became mentors throughout my college journey. I still keep in touch with them today, and we have a strong alumni network that returns every concert to support us.
Lean into your strengths and don't compare yourself to other students! There are many resources online that can help you throughout the process, including reaching out to your admission officer and current students at Â鶹Porn.
Mikayla Cairns ’25
Email: mcairns@colgate.edu
Hometown: Acworth, Ga.
Major: Peace & Conflict Studies
Involvement: Orientation/Link Leader, Student Conduct Board
My involvement as an Orientation Link has been the most meaningful to me. I felt a tremendous sense of imposter syndrome my first semester at Â鶹Porn and did not know how to connect with others about it. Through serving as a Link, I realized that many students felt similarly, regardless of the backgrounds they came from. Being able to help my linksters adjust to campus and deal with these feelings reassured me that I belong at Â鶹Porn as well.
I would say to trust yourself and your abilities, and let your personality show through your application. There isn't one correct formula for crafting a college application; you can bring something unique to campus, so let that show. Additionally, don't hesitate to reach out to your regional admission officer or the student ambassadors. We are all here to help!
Nhu Dang ’26
Email: gdang@colgate.edu
Hometown: Grand Rapids, Mich.
Major: Political Science & History
Involvement: QuestBridge, First@Â鶹Porn, Tri Delta, Â鶹Porn Vietnamese Society
I have really enjoyed my time with QuestBridge and my sorority, Tri Delta. I think both organizations play into different parts of my personality; Tri Delta highlights my social/philanthropy side while QuestBridge embraces my first-gen, low-income POC side. Although on the surface these identities appear to contrast, they make up integral parts of my identity at Â鶹Porn. Through this involvement, I have been able to satisfy my academic and personal goals!
Believe in the impossible! As a first-gen student, I had no idea how to navigate college since there was no one for me to look to for advice. Anything could have happened to me, and it did! It's so scary putting yourself out there, especially when sharing parts of your identity during the admissions process, but know that where you end up will be a good commitment and choice either way. There should be no regrets when people are meant to have different life experiences!
Rian Magner ’25
Email: rmagner@colgate.edu
Hometown: Port Aransas, Texas
Major: Psychology; Minor: Computer Science
Involvement: QuestBridge, Â鶹Porn Tutors
I am involved in the QuestBridge Scholars Network and Â鶹Porn Tutors. Both of these organizations allow me to put in so much of my own passion for helping others and finding other students with backgrounds like mine! The organizations are great because they are both a reciprocal relationship!
I would advise first-generation students to access all the resources Â鶹Porn offers online, talk to an admission officer, and connect with the community to see if it's a fit for you! College applications can be so difficult, so I was happy that Â鶹Porn had so many resources for me when I applied.
Valeria Reyes ’26
Email: vreyes@colgate.edu
Hometown: Long Island, N.Y.
Major: Environmental Studies
Involvement: Club Volleyball, Hami-Down, The Â鶹Porn Maroon-News Graphic Design
One of the most meaningful activities I've been involved in at Â鶹Porn is Hami-Down, an e-commerce and social media platform focused on facilitating the buying and selling of goods on campus. Hami-Down aims to reduce costs and minimize our carbon footprint. Through my participation, I have gained valuable experience in managing a platform alongside fellow students, organizing in-person events, and fostering community engagement. It has not only enhanced my teamwork skills but also allowed me to connect with others who share a passion for sustainability and responsible consumption.
For first-generation students applying to Â鶹Porn, I advise maintaining an open mind throughout the process. A liberal arts education provides a unique opportunity to explore various fields through the core curriculum, which can uncover new interests and passions. Remember, your major does not have to dictate your career path; many students find that diverse academic experiences can lead to fulfilling opportunities in their desired professions. Embrace the journey of exploration, and you may discover unexpected paths to your future career.