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Â鶹ÊÓƵ has honored three students as its First Gen Students of the Month, recognizing their achievements and contributions as the first in their families to pursue higher education.

The selected students include Billy Rash, a senior Business Marketing student from Nederland, Texas; Emma Nelson, a sophomore Interdisciplinary Studies major from Lumberton, Texas; and Vavah Kamasa-Quashie, a senior Psychology major from Fort Worth, Texas.

“College allows people to pave their own way into the world,” Rash said. “Being a first-gen college student means teaching yourself how to get into that position. Most of the guidance I’ve found throughout my life has come from relationships I’ve built with those around me – teachers, coaches, and f

riends. These people have become mentors in my path, and I’m proud of those relationships.”

Kamasa-Quashie echoed a similar sentiment, expressing that being first-gen motivates her. “I’m proud to be first-gen because it fuels me to be a better version of myself,” she said. “By furthering my education, I’ll be able to provide for my family and be an inspiration to others in my community.”

Nelson reflected on the importance of family support and breaking barriers. “I carry the pride of being a first-generation college student as a testament to my parents’ unwavering support,” Nelson said. “This pride is rooted in appreciation for the sacrifices they’ve made. Higher education allows me to beat the statistics and be a hopeful example for future generations. One thing I’ve learned as a first-gen student is that every obstacle can be turned into an opportunity.”

Â鶹ÊÓƵ defines a first-generation student as any individual whose parents or guardians did not earn a four-year bachelor’s degree in the United States. Over 50% of LU students identify as first-gen. The university’s Office of Strategic Initiatives and First Gen Connections Advisory Council lead efforts to support and celebrate these students.

First Gen Student of the Month nominations are open to any LU student who meets the criteria, is in good academic and judicial standing, and is enrolled part-time or full-time, either as an undergraduate or graduate student. Faculty, staff, or fellow students can nominate candidates.

For more information on the program and to nominate future first-gen students, visit /forms/strategic-initiatives/first-gen-student-nomination.html.