The Weight of Responsibility: The Obligation of a First-Generation College Graduate to Uplift Others

Each month throughout the year, we spotlight a different SWE Affinity Group. In this post from the First-Generation Students and Professionals AG, Mariel Cisneros reflects on her experience as a first-generation graduate and engineer.
First-Generation Students and Professionals
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As a first-generation for almost everything in my family, I am often asked about the hurdles I’ve overcome to reach my educational goals. I am an immigrant and the oldest daughter. I am the first to graduate high school, get an undergraduate degree, get a graduate degree, and to have a career in STEM. Coming from a traditional Mexican household, I may sound like I am bragging, but I’ve faced a journey filled with late-night studying, emotional struggles, and the pursuit of dreams that seemed out of reach — not to mention trying to do it all in a language not native to my own. As I stand at the intersection of accomplishment and aspiration, I feel an immense weight on my shoulders — the obligation to reach back and help others who are navigating the complexities of higher education. This blog post explores the emotional and social responsibilities that come with being a first-generation graduate and the transformative power of mentorship and support in creating pathways for future generations.

The Journey to Graduation

Every first-generation college graduate has a unique story, but the common thread is the intense effort put forth to attain a college education against a backdrop of uncertainty and skepticism. For many of us, our parents sacrificed their dreams for our futures, instilling in us the value of hard work and perseverance. Graduating was not just a personal victory; it represented a collective triumph for our families, communities, and the generations that follow.

However, with this achievement comes a unique pressure. We are acutely aware that our success is not solely our own; it is a reflection of the hopes and dreams of those who came before us. This understanding adds a layer of responsibility to our journeys, igniting a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

The Emotional Burden

The emotional weight of being a first-generation graduate can sometimes feel overwhelming. We often grapple with imposter syndrome, questioning whether we truly belong in these new academic spaces. Simultaneously, there’s a strong yearning to honor our roots by giving back to the communities that supported us. This inner conflict can lead to an emotional burden — a sense of urgency to uplift others while also navigating the challenges of our own journey.

We carry the stories of our families — the sacrifices made, the barriers faced, and the dreams deferred. Each time we step into a new role, whether in academia or the workforce, we are mindful that we represent more than just ourselves. We are representatives of an entire generation.

Transforming Weight Into Action

Rather than allowing this weight to become a source of guilt or anxiety, many first-generation graduates choose to transform it into action. Here are some ways to turn that emotional burden into meaningful contributions:

  1. Mentorship: One of the most profound ways to give back is through mentorship. By sharing our experiences, providing guidance, and offering support, we can help younger generations navigate the complexities of higher education. Mentorship can take many forms — tutoring, career advice, or simply being a listening ear for someone facing challenges. For many of us, it also comes in the form of helping our own family members as they make their way through higher education. Mentorship is especially important for first-generation students, as 30% of first-year students drop out before their second year. Research indicates that mentoring programs help students achieve social integration and likely have a positive effect on their transition to college1.
  2. Community Outreach: Engaging with local schools or organizations to provide workshops, resources, and informational sessions can empower students in our communities. Teaching them about the college application process, financial aid, or career opportunities can dispel myths and inspire them to dream big. Studies show that first generation high school students are 20% more likely to enroll in college programs if they participated in outreach2. Outreach has been especially dear to me, as I see myself in the little girls who I volunteer with and often wish that I’d had the same opportunities. Despite being busy and trying to do it all, the reminder that I am making a difference in someone’s life journey pushes me to continue to volunteer.
  3. Storytelling: Sharing our personal stories can help demystify the path to college and career success. It is especially important to not sugar coat the experience. By illustrating our journeys, including the struggles and triumphs, we can foster connections with those who may feel isolated in their experiences. Storytelling humanizes the process and can motivate others to pursue their educational goals. Our stories also allow us to create networks of other first generation members who help us connect to invaluable resources and support. SWE’s First-Generation Affinity Group has allowed me to share my experiences and hear from so many other inspiring engineers.

The Effect of Giving Back

Giving back is not just about the support we provide; it creates a ripple effect that can lead to long-lasting change. When we uplift others, we empower them to reach their goals, perpetuating a cycle of success that can transform entire communities. Our networks, stories, and lessons learned open doors for others. The relationships we build through mentorship and advocacy enrich our own lives, providing us with a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Witnessing the success of those we help can serve as a reminder of why we embarked on our educational journeys in the first place.

The weight of responsibility that comes with being a first-generation college graduate is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it presents challenges and emotional hurdles; on the other, it offers the profound opportunity to impact lives and create lasting change. By embracing our roles as mentors, advocates, and community leaders, we honor the journeys of those who came before us while paving the way for future generations.

In a world where access to education and opportunities may still be barriers for many, it is our duty to ensure that no one feels alone in their pursuits. Together, we can create a legacy of empowerment that transcends generations, fostering a culture of support and success for all.


Keep in touch with the First-Generation Students and Professionals community by joining our Facebook Group or subscribing to our AG’s updates by logging into your member portal and editing your Communication Preferences.

References

  1. https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/IJMCE-01-2023-0002/full/html
  2. https://research.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/Impact%20of%20College%20Outreach%20on%20Student%20Choices%20.pdf

Author

  • Mariel Cisneros

    Mariel Cisneros (she/her) is a senior program manager leading digital engineering for the research and advanced design organization as part of the aeronautics sector at Northrop Grumman Corporation. Mariel is a Mexican immigrant and proud first-generation graduate who holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering technology from California State University, Long Beach; a master’s degree in architecture-enterprise based systems engineering from the University of California, San Diego; and several certifications from the California Institute of Technology. Mariel is an active and passionate DEI leader within the SWE and Northrop Grumman communities.

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