Courtesy photoWichita State University is home to nearly 5,000 first-generation students, individuals whose caregivers weren't able to complete a college degree and who lack the firsthand experience to tackle college life. To help with their transition, Wichita State offers a number of resources to first-gen students to support them during their time in college, including F1RST GEN SHOCKERS.
Hear from Jacey Arnett, a current first-gen student at Wichita State, about her first-gen experience.
Hometown:
Arkansas City, Kansas
Major:
Year
Senior
How does it feel to be the first member of your family to attend college?
It's an accomplishment I am very proud of! My parents have been there for me and supporting me the entire way, so I am very blessed.
Why did you choose Wichita State?
The homey atmosphere of the campus and a wide variety of things to do and opportunities in Wichita.
Plus, it was only an hour from home, so I could work on becoming more independent, but still run down for a quick weekend.
What is your advice for first-generation students?
Take advantage of opportunities that come your way. Definitely take advantage of Supplemental Instruction. Supplemental Instruction gave me an opportunity to ask questions of a peer who had succeeded in the course. That gave me confidence that I, too, could make it through.
What social activities or organizations do you participate in?
I am in the Pre-PA Club and Delta Delta Delta sorority. I also volunteer for Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice weekly.
What are your plans after Wichita State?
I am in the process of interviewing with PA schools, so I hope to become a primary care physician assistant.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 23,000 students between its main campus and WSU Tech, including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student centered and innovation driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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