I don't identify as a first-generation student but I ally with many 1st-gen challenges and barriers since I am the daughter of immigrants whose native language is not English. My parents emigrated to the US before I was born but did not go to college in the US. My higher education journey from University to graduate school through post-doctoral training has been guided by many mentors (most of whom did not look like me) outside of my family. In my work life, I am passionate about teaching and mentoring. I hope to help first-gen students overcome challenges and find their career happy place.