By Suzy Alstrin
Reinhardt supports and cherishes its first-generation students – those seeking to achieve the first bachelor’s degree in their family. On today’s National First-Generation College Celebration Day, Reinhardt applauds the ambitions and successes of the 357 first-generation students currently enrolled, as well as its first-generation alumni.
The annual November 8th celebration honors the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965. That legislation helped expand opportunities and financial assistance to enable students who otherwise would not attend college.
Kelsey McReynolds (RU-2027) is one of nearly 30 percent of the student body to be a first-generation student and holds a membership in Reinhardt’s Scholars Program. Receiving the academic distinction and Sharp scholarships greatly affected her ability to attend college, she said. “None of my parents had the opportunity to attend a formal four-year university. This is due to circumstances like family and funding situations,” she explained. “I really wanted to help people even from a young age. After being here for some time, I discovered a call to the field of sociology. I now have discovered something I love in a way I never could have before.”
Talia Gomez (RU-2027) is also a member of the Scholars Program while being a first-generation student. “I’m grateful I have the opportunity many can’t have,” she explained. “I decided to come to college for my future and the future of my family. I saw college as an opportunity for growth and doors opening. For my parents, being able to attend college means their hard work is paying off. For them it means success.” With the goal of becoming a nurse, she hopes to make a difference adding, “In simple words to be a first-generation student is the start of new beginnings.”
Reinhardt’s resources for first-generation students can be found HERE.
