Und ergraduate Institution: Roger Williams University
Graduate Institution Central Connecticut State University, Master of Science
Masters Institution: Central Connecticut State University, Master of Science
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
CEN, campus program board / Psychology Club / Education Club / Dance Club
President, Graduate Student Association
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Got involved outside of the classroom – at first it was scary, but by doing so, and putting myself out there – I found my best friends who are a second family to me, and I learned about my current career that until then I knew nothing about.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a firstgen student?
Lots of calls home, and “finding my people” see above, lol – joining groups allowed me to find a good support system, especially in the situations that my family was unsure about – this included not just my friends, but the staff at the university as well.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
What, if any additional financial aid/support was available – I paid for school and navigated it on my own a lot. I wish I had more clarity on lenders and interest rates.
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
My parents, especially my dad. He was always my BIGGEST cheerleader.
“...I found my best friends who are a second family to me...”
Mathew Chetnik
Student Success
Student Success and the First Year Experience
Assistant Dean
mchetnik@salemstate.edu
Undergraduate Institution: State University of New York at New Paltz
Graduate Institution: Appalachian State University
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
Resident Assistant, Orientation Leader, President of the Residence Hall Student Association, Office Assistant New Student Programs Office, Historian of the National Residence Hall Honorary, Admissions Tour Guide
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? While it seems that everyone else has their act together or is confident in what they are doing, the truth is that everyone is hiding insecurities, fears, and nerves. It’s something that everyone is afraid to verbalize but we all have it inside ourselves. Don’t judge yourself against someone else’s appearance of confidence and trust that you aren’t alone when you feel lost, confused, or nervous about something. Once you realize that everyone else is feeling similarly, it starts to ease the stress.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I learned very quickly that I wasn’t going to be successful if I didn’t accept the help that was being offered to me. Once I connected with someone who worked at my college, and made a commitment to open up and learn from them, my journey became a lot easier. They provided advice and encouragement and sometimes a kick in the butt…but they also introduced me to others at the institution who helped as well. Find someone who can be your person, mentor, guide…whatever you want to call them and let them help you.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
(1) I surrounded myself with messages of encouragement – posters and signs with quotes and reminders that I can do it until I started to internalize and believe it, and (2) I talked a lot with my grandmother who was my inspiration…she kept me going with her motivation and sometimes firm advice to ‘get it done”
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. How do college loans really work with payments and interest and what other options do I have or how can I prepare for my post-graduation financial situation?
2. How does the overall grading system work and what impact does failing a class have on my long-term GPA?
3. How do I get to know my professors better so I feel more comfortable talking with them in class?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
My inspiration and motivation was my grandmother who did everything she could to make sure I was able to get through college. My degree was dedicated to her and after graduation I purchased a brick on my campus with her name on it to forever memorialize her support of me. My mentors in undergrad were a team of administrators who helped me navigate the various roadblocks and obstacles I faced –the Director of New Student Programs, Director of Residence Life, the Director of Financial Aid, the Registrar, and the Dean of Students. Each of them were instrumental in giving me support and assistance when challenges appeared.
Don’t judge yourself against someone else’s appearance of confidence and trust that you aren’t alone when you feel lost, confused, or nervous about something.
Anne Marie DeFelippo
Maguire Meservey College of Human Services
Faculty
School of Nursing Professor
adefelippo@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Boston College
Graduate Institution: Yale University MSN Masters in Mental Health Nursing
Doctoral Institution: New England School of Law JD (yes I almost went into criminal law)
University of Massachusetts Boston PhD Higher Education Administration
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
Worked as CNA during my summers in my college years.
I was a member of the Medical Committee for Human Rights in the 1970”s. We stayed current on such issues as the Vietnam War, Strip mining in Appalachia and welfare of prisoners.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? Know that you will be successful. You want to be here in college. You will grow into who you are meant to be. Take it day to day. Make friends and keep them in your life. Get peer tutoring. Go to reunions!
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I was part of student government and then joined a folk music group.
Singing gave me so much joy. Did the same in grad school. I also learned to ice skate.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
I prayed alot. I also sought wise counsel from persons who advised me to take time off during some of the weekend and meet new people. Best advice I ever received. I had fun on Saturdays but worked hard the rest of the time.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. How many other peers are first gen? (most were then).
2. How do I develop a hobby that I keep during college?
3. What is the best way to study? (in a study group is what I have learned since college—we did this in law school).
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
A counselor, then a faculty member, then friends who also studied hard but then went to dances with friends, and even took trips to Cape Cod. I was competitive with my friends.
My father was my biggest inspiration. He told me in a very serious tone of voice, that “getting a formal education was the most important thing I could ever do.” I took his advice Very Seriously. (My father was an avid reader and he got his education by reading as many books as he could.)
When I graduated from college, I handed him my diploma. “Here this is for you.” I said to him.
“I also sought wise counsel from persons who advised me to take time off during some of the weekend and meet new people.
Best advice I ever received.”
Timothy Eddy College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty
Chair and Professor of Psychology
teddy@salemstate.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Oakland University
Masters/doctoral Institution: PhD
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? If you don’t know why you’re attending your University, take some time off to give it some thought.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I took it upon myself to contact a well-liked professor to learn more about the profession and the most effective, efficient way to proceed.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student? This was less of a problem for me as an undergraduate than is was as a graduate student, but talking with mental health professionals was essential.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. What social/political movements coming down the pike might affect my ability to flourish academically?
2. How can I best manage my time?
“I took it upon myself to contact a well-liked professor to learn more about the profession and the most effective, efficient way to proceed.”
3. What services are available to me as a first-generation student?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
Dr.’s Dean Purcell and Theodore Landau both were instrumental in my academic success via their support and guidance (I initiated communications with them, rather than vice-versa because they greatly inspired me), as well as the University’s Academic Advising services.
Lataya Ferguson-Jean Advancement
Staff
Donor Engagement Officer
lfergusonjean@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: North Shore Community College/ Salem State University
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? Your professors are on your side, and they do not want to see you fail.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Keeping my mind focus on the goal of getting my degree and how it will shape my career path in the future.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a firstgen student?
I dealt with fear by drowning out my anxious thoughts with exercise and spending time with friends.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. What do I want to achieve out of this college experience other than my degree?
2. How to keep myself accountable when I receive a grade that is not appeasing to me?
3. What should I expect from my first job fresh out of college?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
My mother and my professors inspired me to keep going.
“I dealt with fear by drowning out my anxious thoughts with exercise and spending time with friends.”
Olivia Giannetti
Student Success
Student Navigation Center
Staff
Student Service Specialist
ogiannetti@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Cape Cod Community College (AS) and Bridgewater State University (BS)
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company? Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, National Honor Society
“I made sure to have a supporter.”
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
I spent a lot of time keeping to myself while completing my undergrad. Looking back, ‘now’ me would say to ‘then’ me, “You are not alone—there are others facing the same challenges. Take some time to find your people.”
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Asked for help early and when I needed it.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student? I made sure to have a supporter. Your supporter can be anyone you trust, who encourages you to work through challenges, lifts you up and creates a safe space for you.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. Where can I find groups of interest to me?
2. Who at the school can support/guide me with things like financial aid and billing?
3. Who here is facing the same insecurities and similar circumstances and how do I connect with them?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going? My husband inspired me to keep going. We went back to college together in our late 20’s, both as first-generation students, to community college, and transferred to Bridgewater State together. Although we were in different majors, we tried our best to correlate schedules so we could commute together. We both worked full time and got married in the middle of it all. When I graduated, I supported him through his final year. I was fortunate to have a supporter who was also on the same journey.
Avril Hevey-Doucette
Student Success
Transfer Services
Staff
Associate Registrar
aheveydoucette@salemstate.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Milltown Institute of Theology and Philosophy, Dublin, Ireland, and Salem State University
Graduate Institution: SSU Masters
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
Proud past president of the international student association!
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? It’s not party-time. Well, not every day at least! (I am darn lucky I got away with some of the shenanigans that went on lol!)
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Faked it ‘til I made it. Showed up. Forced myself to overcome any ounce of shyness I had (was a painfully shy child).
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student? Felt the fear and did it anyway!
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. Do you know how lucky you are? (although I did know)
2. Do you know how worthwhile you are?
3. Do you have any idea how far you can go?!!
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
So many faculty and staff at SSU. Some notable ones were Len Zani (RIP Dr. Zani xx. My advisor in SSU’s grad program, but even before I was admitted to the program he helped me, even calling me back in Ireland to answer a question) and Dr. Patricia Buchanan, (retired now and living her best life!) my undergraduate advisor. Thanks a million!
“Felt the fear and did it anyway!”
Elisabeth Horowitz
College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty
English Department Adjunct Professor
ehorowitz@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Hamilton College, BA
Graduate Institution: The University of Iowa, MFA
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
“...speak up in class more often.”
Internships while an undergraduate: Workman’s Publishing Company, taught writing at a nursing home in Utica, N.Y., a preschool in Utica, New York, and a maximum security male prison in Auburn, New York.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
I would tell my younger self to have more confidence, to not be afraid of taking more demanding courses and to speak up in class more often.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
How to ask good questions, how to interrogate a text.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student? I did not deal with imposter syndrome at all. The term had not been coined yet and no one discussed it.
I couldn’t believe that so many students had already lived away from home at boarding schools, read Milton and knew what lacrosse was! (I had no idea as a New York City Public School student and had never seen a lacrosse stick before). Some of the students were very rich and that frightened me.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. What field should I go into when I graduate?
2. Will you write a recommendation for me to go to graduate school now so I can put it on file?
3. How can I use Hamilton College Alumni connections to my advantage?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going? My creative writing teachers and my advisor were my mentors.
Barbara Layne
School of Continuing and Professional Studies
Faculty
Dean
blayne@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: BA Psychology, Bridgewater State University
Masters Institution: MBA, Northeastern University
Doctoral Institution: Doctorate in Law and Policy, Northeastern University
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
I did an internship in the Women’s Center at Bunkerhill Community College my senior year at Bridgewater State University.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? I would have paid more attention to taking a full course load to finish on time. I took 12 credits instead of 15 and it took me 5.5 years to finish.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I connected with my faculty advisor. Taking their advice and counsel saved me making dumb mistakes like scheduling my classes for convenience instead of for the material I wanted to learn.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
Imposter syndrome is real and pernicious. It ebbed and flowed for me. As I saw success it built my confidence. Have a dream and follow it. If people are saying you are doing well, believe them. They didn’t need to say anything; they are taking the time to tell you they believe in you.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
I wished I had asked what happens when I stumble, who do I go to for help. I struggled and struggled alone.
“Have a dream and follow it.”
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
My mom inspired me. She wanted more for me than she had opportunity to do.
Christopher Macdonald-Dennis
Inclusive Excellence
Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion
cmacdonalddenn@salemstate.edu
He/They
Undergraduate Institution: Framingham State University
Masters Institution: MS, Northeastern University; EdD, University of Massachusetts Amherst; M.Div., Lexington Theological Seminary
Doctoral Institution: Doctorate in Law and Policy, Northeastern University
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
Part of many student organizations, Orientation Leader, student of color organization, gay student group, Student Activities Board.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
Be open to all of the ways your mind will expand.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success? Attend class.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student? I reached out to people I trusted.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. What do I need to succeed?
2. Who should I reach out to choose a major?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
The dean of students.
“Be open to all of the ways your mind will expand.”
Sara Moore
College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty
Associate Professor and Chairperson of Sociology
smoore@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Shepherd University (Shepherdstown, WV)
Masters Institution: (MA): The New School (New York, NY)
Doctoral Institution: (PhD): George Mason University (Fairfax, VA)
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? Don’t be so afraid! As a first-generation college student, I was worried about making friends, fitting in, and sounding smart. I imagined everyone else had a better education than I did and knew exactly what they wanted to do with their lives. I thought professors expected students to arrive in class with a baseline of knowledge that I didn’t have. But it turns out that everyone starts college feeling a little anxious and unsure. Even though it’s difficult, work to confront the things you’re afraid of. If you’re worried about meeting new people, put yourself in spaces where you’re forced to engage with others. If you’re worried about doing well in class, take a deep breath and introduce yourself to that intimidating professor (who’s probably not that intimidating at all). Ultimately, stepping outside of your comfort zone will be your biggest source of growth and pride.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I found engaging and supportive peers. I was grateful to be part of my university’s honors program, which helped me connect with a group of students who had similar interests and goals. They became project partners, study buddies, and close friends. We helped each other manage stress, supported each other when we felt discouraged, and celebrated our personal and academic accomplishments.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
I always say, “fake it until you make it!” That notion has stood the test of time for me in college, in graduate school, and even as a university professor. Impostor syndrome is very real, but you can’t let it define your whole experience. Walk into class with your head held high, even if you’re feeling worried about whether you belong. Reach out to your professors, even if you’re worried that you’re asking a silly question. Sometimes just going through the motions in your everyday interactions can help you feel more confident as times goes on.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. How can this university support me as I consider post-undergraduate plans like graduate school or career planning? (It’s never too early to start thinking about this!)
2. What academic supports exist here that can help me if I’m struggling in class?
3. How can this university help me afford this education and plan for loan repayment when I graduate?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
I started college as an English major but fell in love with sociology when I took an introductory sociology class my sophomore year. The professor who taught that class, Tom Patterson, would become my mentor and friend. I took many, many more classes with Professor Patterson, and he was the first person who encouraged me to apply to graduate school. I and other students spent hours in his office talking about social theory, pop culture, and his deep love of antique cars. Through his kindness, thoughtfulness, gentle criticism, and humor, he helped me chart a path forward so I could get where I am today.
“Even though it’s difficult, work to confront the things you’re afraid of.
If you’re worried about meeting new people, put yourself in spaces where you’re forced to engage with others.”
Alexandria Peary
College of Arts and Sciences
Faculty
Professor of English
apeary@salemstate.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Colby College
Masters Institution: University of Iowa (MFA); University of Massachusetts, Amherst (MFA);
“I took risks...”
Doctoral Institution: University of New Hampshire (PhD)
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
Although you may feel at times like the outsider, try to remember that other members of your college by and large are curious about and receptive to a student like you, with ability, from a (far) lower socio-economic and educational background. Be understanding when they don’t understand your upbringing or fiscal limitations. Make the most of getting to know the people around you, and don’t think twice about your “K-Mart” clothing.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I worked very, very hard and didn’t hide my absolute passion for the field I studied. I took risks (like sending my writing out for publication) when “just” a student.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
I didn’t really have either feeling. Because I attended an expensive school as a scholarship student as a “townie,” what I mostly dealt with is a sense that I had to fight harder than others around me to advance in life, and sometimes that made me feel discouraged.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
I wish I had asked my professors if they’d come from a similar background and how they became professors. I wish I had asked about internships and other ways to reach my goals earlier.
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
My mentor was a fabulous creative writing teacher named Laura Mullen (I’m still in touch with her after all these years). She believed in me and was matchless in her ability to give support to a younger writer. My other mentor was the mother of the guy I dated throughout college; she was a Holocaust survivor from Poland who graciously opened her house to me and showed me a different world of art, literature, and culture.
Katya Perez
Center for Justice and Liberation
Staff
Program Coordinator
kperez@salemstate.edu
She/They
Undergraduate Institution: Union College
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
Posse Full-Tuition Leadership Scholarship; Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? I would encourage myself to start learning about and engaging in self-care practices sooner, especially meditation and mindfulness. I was so preoccupied with making new friends, meeting professors, and exploring campus that I often forgot to give myself moments of peace and quiet. Connecting with my mind, body, and spirit is essential for me to feel grounded, especially when entering a new period of my life. What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Pushing myself past my comfort zone is what made me successful. I took classes that challenged me, went out of my way to connect with my peers and professors, and tried activities that were totally new and different. It was uncomfortable, at first; I was shy and reserved before I started college. But the more I practiced putting myself out there, the more natural it felt. As a result, I learned so much about the world around me, my community, and myself. If I stayed in my bubble and only did what felt easy, I wouldn’t have grown into the person I am today.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
To be honest, I didn’t handle it well for a long time! It’s something I still struggle with to this day. I’m the eldest daughter of immigrant parents, and the first in my family to travel out of state and get a college degree. As much as I appreciated the praise and celebration from my family, I found that it reinforced my fear and anxiety because I was internalizing that as pressure to be perfect. It honestly took a few emotional meltdowns before I realized I had to change that inner narrative. I had to understand that I was harder on myself than anyone else. I stopped trying to be perfect and started being me. I learned to love all of myself, even the pieces that were messy and complicated. It’s a skill that I’m still practicing, but with patience and grace, it’s possible!
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. How the heck am I supposed to do financial aid on my own?
My parents were very financially supportive in my first few years of college, but when my sister started her college journey, my parents were financially and emotionally overwhelmed by supporting both of us. By senior year, I had to learn how to navigate my finances on my own. I wish I had asked this question sooner, so it didn’t feel as stressful while I was trying to graduate.
2. When should I see a therapist?
For a long time, I believed that I needed to be going through significant life challenges to talk to a therapist. But I learned that anyone could talk to a therapist about anything, no matter how big or small. If I had asked this question sooner, I think I would have taken better care of myself in college.
3. Can you help me?
I was so reluctant to ask people for help! I felt like people were going to think I was dumb. I know now that there is no shame in asking for help, even for simple tasks.
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
I had the absolute joy and privilege of being a Posse Scholar in my undergraduate experience. Not only did I have my “Posse” (10 students from Boston who I met during my senior year of high school), but I had my Posse Mentor. His name is Ken, and he was a tenured faculty member at my college. I met with him every week in my first two years of school, and we would talk about academics, career aspirations, friendships, relationships…literally everything! It was such a relief to have a trusted adult on campus that I could turn to when I felt like I had no one. He consoled me when I was at my lowest and cheered me on when I was at my greatest. Most importantly, he never judged me. Not once. While not everyone is gifted a mentor like I was as a Posse Scholar, I’m a firm believer that everyone can find a mentor. In every job I’ve had since I graduated, I found someone to mentor and guide me. It takes some work, but it is so rewarding.
“I took classes that challenged me...”
Carlie Pierre
Office of Inclusive Excellence
Staff
Director of Education and Training
spierre@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Elle
Undergraduate Institution: Florida Gulf Coast University – BA in Communications, minor in French
“Stay organized.“
Masters Institution: Texas State University - MEd in Student Affairs in Higher Education
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
I was a member of the Haitian Student Organization, Black Student Alliance, Tau Sigma chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and LEAD Team
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? Plan out your four years, take advantage of the resources available to you, ask for help, have a mentor, and study abroad! I studied abroad during my master’s program and wish I had done it sooner!
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Stay organized. I managed my time effectively by keeping a planner, checking off my To Do List so I can stay on track.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
Affirmations and dreaming big! Envision the future you dream of and let that be your drive. Your experiences make you an asset, not any less deserving. You got admitted, so you qualify just like everyone else!
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. What do I want to get out of this experience?
2. Will this matter in 5-10 years?
3. Who can I go to when I am feeling stuck?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going? My advisor, my sorority sisters, and my mother. They believed in me and set the bar high for me.
Amilya Putzig
Student Success
Staff
Executive Assistant for the Vice President of Student Success
amilya.putzig@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Salem State University #rollvikes!
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? Give yourself grace—be proud of what you have accomplished and look forward to what you will accomplish.
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Get involved! Finding groups/activities to enjoy outside the classroom played a key role in my success, social life, confidence, and so much more.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
I relied on those around me who were in a similar boat, it’s okay to ask for help. I also gradually learned to turn my failure into a learning moment instead of a roadblock.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. How do I navigate student loans and paying for a good education?
2. What resources are on campus to support me emotionally and academically?
3. What does your school’s community do to make students feel “at home” while on campus?
“I also gradually learned to turn my failure into a learning moment instead of a roadblock.”
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
My parents inspired me to keep going, I wanted to make them proud.
Carole Rizzo
Student Success
Student Navigation Center
Staff
crizzo@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Salem State University Class of 1989 – BA English
Graduate Institution: Northeastern University Class of 1991 – MEd School
Counseling
Were you part of a student organization or did you do an internship as an undergrad – what group/company?
Member of Psi Chi; Contributor to Soundings East
During my undergraduate years, I was employed part-time at the US Department of State/Passport Services in Communications Department and Lombardo’s Function Facility as waitstaff.
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college? When I look back on my time as an undergraduate, I wish I had pushed myself out of my comfort zone more. I pursued a degree in English with a written communications concentration because I was a strong writer. I also enjoyed analyzing and deconstructing literature. I thrived in the major. However, I had interests in other areas as well. Environmental Biology and Geology always interested me and continue to. I let my fear of the challenge that the coursework would present deter me from pursuing courses in those disciplines. My advice to a new student entering college would be to explore all your interests and not just those within your comfort zone. Also, because I was a commuter student, I did not engage in as many on campus activities and organizations as I should have. Students beginning their college experience should take the time and make those connections.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
To be honest, I did not experience fear of failure or imposter syndrome. I believed I had the skills and abilities to succeed in my chosen major. My fear was in pursuing courses outside my comfort zone. I wish I had not let that fear prevent me from exploring the sciences.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. What additional resources are available to assist with the cost of my education? I had an annual scholarship that helped, but I paid the remainder of my expenses out of pocket. I wish I had explored financial aid more fully.
2. What groups and organizations on campus meet during the day? I was commuting by bus to Salem State, and I think that impacted my willingness to connect with student groups because many met later in the day. I did not work hard enough to find groups that could work with my schedule.
3. Who can help me explore the academic options available to me? I should have visited Advising to explore the majors and minors available before committing to one. It seemed very risky to me to not have a major right away. I was afraid of taking longer than 4 years to complete the degree due to the cost. I think if I had a better understanding about the general education requirements, I would have realized I had some time to explore before committing to a major.
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going? I was very fortunate to have a wonderful academic advisor, Dr. Michael Prochilo, who really took the time to explain my degree requirements to me and to know me as a person. He would greet me by name if we passed in the halls. That was very meaningful to me. I also owe so much to Dr. Richard Elia who was my professor in four courses. He wrote my letter of recommendation for graduate school. He told me I was a “good scholar.” This was very high praise from Dr. Elia. Students always strove to do their very best work for Dr. Elia. He challenged each of us to be better. Finally, my parents inspired me to keep going. They had unwavering faith in my ability to complete my degree. Their emotional support was invaluable.
“...I wish I had pushed myself out of my comfort zone more.”
Stella Scata
Student Success
Graduate Admissions
Staff
Associate Director
swillis@salemstate.edu
She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate Institution: Salem State University, 2019
Graduate Institution: current MSW candidate at Westfield State University, expected graduation 2024
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
Utilize all educational resources! My first year was a bit bumpy and if I accessed the supports available such as the writing center, tutoring, office hours, etc- I am sure my academic journey would have felt a bit smoother!
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
I got involved on campus! I worked on campus, participated in groups/clubs and attended many events. This provided me with structure and support, as well as a sense of belonging and identity during my time at SSU!
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
I found really strong mentors during my first year who supported my journey and helped me navigate this new world. I am still in contact with them to this day!
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. How can I pay for this degree without taking out so many loans?
2. Do I really need to buy this textbook?!
3. How do I create a community around me?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going?
“I got involved on campus!”
I attended Salem State University for my undergraduate degree and during my entire time as a student I worked within the First Year Experience Office (FYE). Mathew Chetnik was my mentor from day one, until now (and forever!). He met me where I was and guided me professionally, academically and personally through all life threw at me.
Yvonne Vissing
Maguire Meservey College of Human Services Faculty Professor of Healthcare Studies, Founding Director of the Center for Childhood and Youth Studies
yvissing@salemstate.edu
Undergraduate Institution: Indiana University Bloomington
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
Have a dream and follow it, not matter what anyone else says.
“Have a dream and follow it...”
What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Show up regularly to class, do all my work, and ask my professors for help. Developing a relationship with professors was scary but really important. Teachers watch out for students who show that extra interest in their work.
How did you deal with the fear of failure or imposter syndrome as a first-gen student?
One of my teachers told me that I would never be an academic, that I should lower my expectations for success. He was a misogynist but his words rang in my ears for years. He made me think I was not good enough. And then, one day, a different professor indicated that I was super. That made all the difference. Don’t listen to small minded, bigoted people. Trust yourself and your own wonderfulness.
What three questions do you wish you had asked while navigating college as a first-gen student?
1. I know I will have to jump through hoops - but are they going to be on fire???
2. Will student poverty last forever?
3. Why is it that being a student can be the best time of our life?
Who mentored you through your experience OR who inspired you to keep going? My parents could not mentor me because they did not go to college or understand the world that I was entering. My dad thought I should be a secretary for my brother, who they saw as better (because he was a guy). I had an older friend who was in college and she said she would watch out for me if my parents let me go to college. Having an older friend who was from my home town who had succeeded helped me to believe that I could too. My forever thanks to Billie Jo.
Jamie Wilson College of Arts and Sciences Faculty
Professor of History
jwilson@salemstate.edu
Undergraduate Institution: University of Delaware
Graduate Institution: New York University
Looking back, what advice would you give yourself as a student entering college?
Sometimes when we are pursuing a goal in higher education that our family, friends, and community do not understand, we get sucked back into family squabbles, our friends’ problems, and community events that simply are not productive. Learn to take care of yourself for your long-term goals. Sometimes we have to say no. What was one of the most important things you did as a student in college to achieve success?
Learn to code switch. I am a black man in America approaching half of a century of life. I have my homies, my brothers, and my community. I code switch every day, sometimes hour by hour. Kicking it with my crew is one thing. Being at an institution of higher learning is another. The behaviors and habits that we have and exhibit elsewhere may not be useful or applicable to our university learning environment. For people of color code switching is and has always been about survival and success.
“Learn to take care of yourself for your long-term goals. Sometimes we have to say no.”
