National First-Generation Day: Celebrating Students Who Pave the Way

For first-generation college students, earning a degree means more than completing classes and crossing a stage at graduation. It means stepping into unfamiliar territory and facing new obstacles. That’s why these students are celebrated each year on National First-Generation College Celebration Day.

Otterbein focuses on first-generation student recruitment and support, because these students make the University community stronger. They bring unique perspectives, determination, and a strong sense of purpose. Many are attending college not only for themselves, but also for their families and communities.

First-generation students face some obstacles not shared by students who have had parents or siblings attend college before them — like being the first in their family to navigating financial aid, academic workloads, and more. That’s why Otterbein provides campus resources to help these students not just succeed, but also build confidence, resilience, and adaptability.

As we celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day, we recognize the Otterbein students who are forging their own paths, breaking down barriers, and showing that being the first is something to be proud of.

Here is what Otterbein’s first-generation students shared about their experience.

As a first-gen student, how do you feel supported on campus?

“I feel supported on campus because they have events like First-Gen Friday and first-gen honor society. I feel very supported and know if I need help there are people who would help me.” Daniela De Mata Hiciano  

“I feel most supported by surrounding myself with people and clubs/organizations that believe in me, and will help me accomplish my goals.” Aissata Dia  

“I feel supported by my professors, friends, and the people on campus who are always willing to help me. As a first-gen student, there are many things I have to figure out on my own, so having people I can turn to means a lot to me.” Ayan Atosh

What is your “Why” that motivates you to complete a higher education degree? 

“My ‘why’ that motivates me is my family. I know they worked hard for me to even have the opportunity to go to college. I strive to be a role model for my brother as well to show him education opens doors for opportunities. Also working towards a higher education will allow me to help people with their physical abilities and that pushes me to want to be the best physical therapist I can be.” Daniela De Mata Hiciano 

“My ‘why’ on completing higher education is to not just do it for myself, but for the ones around the world that don’t have the privilege to do so.” Aissata Dia  

“My biggest motivation is my parents and my six younger siblings. My parents never had the chance to get education because of war, famine, and instability. I want to make their sacrifices worth it, become a nurse, and be someone my younger siblings can look up to.” Ayan Atosh 

“Knowing that I can create a better life for my family and my future.” Sydney Harris 

“Becoming the positive example for the next generation of my family.” Caden Gadjigo 

How do you feel celebrated? 

“I feel celebrated knowing there’s support for me and when they have celebrations for the first-gen students.” Daniela De Mata Hiciano 

“I feel the most celebrated when I’m being recognized for my achievements and hard-work; such as being inducted into the Tri-Alpha honor society in November.” Aissata Dia  

“I feel most celebrated when I am surrounded by people who genuinely support me and are happy to see me succeed. Being able to share my achievements with my family and make them proud means the most to me.” Ayan Atosh 

What is your legacy that is being built? 

“With me being first-gen, I built a lot of my own legacy. Being the first to go to college, first to join a sorority, and join the first-gen honor society and other organizations I am in. I am building a name for myself and hopefully when I leave, I know I left an impact on my community.” Daniela De Mata Hiciano  

“That if I can accomplish great things (even though I’m a minority), then anyone can do it as long as they put in the effort and believe in themselves.” Aissata Dia 

“I want to build a legacy where education and opportunities are possible for my family. As the oldest of six, I want to set a good example for my siblings and show them that no matter where we come from, we can achieve our dreams.” Ayan Atosh