This resonated with me! I graduated at 30YO with an undergraduate degree in studio art. I am also a first-generation college student. I withdrew from my first state university because I was not prepared emotionally, mentally, or physically. Being the first to navigate college was not easy and I lacked self-confidence and a sense of academic direction. I moved back to my hometown and took a few years off. Eventually a much cheaper commuter friendly university in my hometown accepted me; it was a great fit. I appreciated my classes so much more the second time around and found confidence in pursuing a degree I was actually good at. Math and science never came easy to me, realizing that was liberating. After landing on studio art, I was much more willing to engage with peers, ask for help and speak to my professors. I was recognized by my peers and for the first time felt like my voice mattered. The only downside of graduating at an older age is not feeling compelled to study abroad because I had bills, pets and an established routine that seemed daunting to leave behind.
This is such an inspiring story! I'm in awe of your determination to go to college and excel.
This resonated with me! I graduated at 30YO with an undergraduate degree in studio art. I am also a first-generation college student. I withdrew from my first state university because I was not prepared emotionally, mentally, or physically. Being the first to navigate college was not easy and I lacked self-confidence and a sense of academic direction. I moved back to my hometown and took a few years off. Eventually a much cheaper commuter friendly university in my hometown accepted me; it was a great fit. I appreciated my classes so much more the second time around and found confidence in pursuing a degree I was actually good at. Math and science never came easy to me, realizing that was liberating. After landing on studio art, I was much more willing to engage with peers, ask for help and speak to my professors. I was recognized by my peers and for the first time felt like my voice mattered. The only downside of graduating at an older age is not feeling compelled to study abroad because I had bills, pets and an established routine that seemed daunting to leave behind.