Growing up, Jennifer never considered college optional. “I was determined to get my degree, and I have always loved learning,” she remarked. As a first-generation student, Jennifer said her parents were initially indifferent about her decision to attend college, but they supported her along the way and tried to help her financially. She is also grateful for the number of scholarships she earned and the many donors who made it possible. Jennifer chose to attend UE because “it was close to home and had a fantastic reputation.” Even though it was larger than her high school, she loved the small class sizes and personal help and mentoring from professors.

Jennifer says the biggest challenge to being first-gen is that “your support system doesn't fully understand the value or difficulty of what you are doing.” Since graduating, though, they have seen all her successes and are proud of her achievements. Today, she still has a desire to further her education. In 2022, she will graduate (again) from UE with her Master of Science in Leadership!