First-Generation Students are Paving the Way

By Lori Werth, Ph.D.

Tiny fingers worked hard to buckle the seatbelt. My heart raced as I anxiously looked outside the airplane window at the stars brightening the early morning sky.

The young girl who arrived on that airplane with her parents from Bucharest, Romania, learned how to speak English, was encouraged to attend college and later in life earned a Doctor of Philosophy. This is my story and now I have the distinct pleasure to serve and lead rural, firstgeneration students in Central Appalachia as a university provost.

First-generation students often face unique challenges, such as a lack of familiarity with the college application process and financial barriers. As a result, many work harder than their peers to succeed academically. Their determination and resilience in the face of these challenges can serve as an inspiration to other students on campus.

Meet Evan Flores ’23, from Johnstown, Colo. Evan is a first-generation student who comes from a family of six siblings. Although his parents did not attend college, they supported and encouraged him to pursue higher education. Like my mom and dad, his family has sacrificed a great deal to see him grow and develop on a college campus.

Flores not only works part-time, but has been instrumental on the UPIKE archery team, served as a resident assistant on campus, and has been recognized for his academic achievements. His talent in archery has been regionally and nationally recognized in the following categories: Indoor Conference - 3rd Place Mixed Compound Team 2021, 3D Conference3rd Place Men’s Compound Team 2021, Outdoor Regional - 3rd Men’s Compound Team 2022, and Outdoor Conference - 3rd Men’s Compound Team 2022.

First-generation students bring a diverse perspective to the campus community. They come from different socioeconomic backgrounds, cultures and experiences, which enrich classroom discussions and contribute to a more inclusive campus environment. The success of firstgeneration students has a ripple effect on their families and communities. At UPIKE, we believe our students and their journey of finding their place takes a great deal of grit, work ethic, perseverance and passion. It also takes a community of faculty, staff and coaches to ensure we can inspire these students to achieve their highest potential and cultivate experiences. Flores’ journey began as a young boy being encouraged by his parents in a rural Colorado community. Our athletics program brought him to Pikeville and he has contributed a great deal to our campus. Watch out. His work is not finished. One day in the near future, he hopes to give back and treat thousands of patients as a physician and leader.