I was the first in my family to go to university and to finish university, I am a first generation Greek American and we were also a low-income family. If you have been following our blogs, I have mentioned how difficult it was for me going and completing my university degree. So much so that my purpose in life it to help those who want to achieve their educational dreams-it’s personal.
First Lady Michelle Obama described some of the obstacles:
You’re in a whole new world.
You might have trouble finding peers with similar backgrounds.
Worried about how to pay for classes, food and accommodation.
Need to understand and implement your budget.
You may feel guilt for leaving your family behind.
The statistics show that most first-generation, low-income students have a hard time fitting in, receive lower grades and drop out at higher rates. Numerous studies show that financial, academic and psychological barriers the students encounter have significantly undermined their performance. Universities like Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Northwestern University and Stanford University are stepping up and implementing programs to help these students’ succeed. The following are some examples of the initiatives being undertaken:
Demonstrate to all students how they can experience college differently.
Start with a solid foundation.
Allow and encourage senior students share their own stories.
Don’t be afraid of the negatives, but offset it with the positives.
Deliver a powerful message.
If you would like to read more on this article I suggestion you do http://www.insidehighered.com/views/2014/03/18/essay-colleges-can-help-students-talking-about-issues-social-class.
A saying I have used my whole life is “you are only as strong as your weakest link”. Education must be available for anyone who seeks it regardless of his or her background and we as a nation must step up and remember our success has nothing to do with our past but what we do in the present and future, educate so we can compete!!
Bearla International Studies
Elizabeth Koukladas Director
info.bearla@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment