For my community project, I chose to focus on the social aspect after I thought about the importance of positive influences at a young age. I was able to speak in front of an 11th-grade classroom in Linden High School with the help of a fellow Kean student who is also a student teacher there. She had expressed to me that many students feel as though they need guidance at times when it comes to preparing for college/post-graduation or even just basic information about how to get started and was looking for volunteers to speak about their careers/college experience. When I was in high school, there were few opportunities to learn about the college application process or even what my options were. I had one teacher that offered to help students fill out financial aid applications and help us work on college essays, and that helped me more than I realized at the time. Being a first-generation college student, I wanted to create a space for these potential college (and first-generation) students and provide them with an opportunity to ask as many questions as they needed, while also informing them that the application process is not as intimidating as it seems. I introduced myself to the class as a student of Kean University and a Global Business major. After explaining my major, I was pleasantly surprised when multiple students told me they were interested in global/international business. Being that I have friends at Kean who are business, education, biology, criminal justice, and graphic design majors, I was able to provide some insight on those as well and what kind of careers some of these people have now. While some students were expressive about having no interest in going to college, I explained to them that it’s okay and college isn’t for everyone, but if they do ever decide to go to school they would benefit from at least understanding the process. Many students had questions about dorming, clubs to join, fraternities/sororities, and studying abroad. They were even shocked to find out that Kean offers all of these opportunities and the convenience of its location. Although I was in their position only a few years ago, I still benefit from the lessons and advice I received when I was in high school. Being a positive influence or example to the younger generations can impact their lives and choices which can also inspire them to lead others as well. Being that I am not significantly older than them, I felt that they were very comfortable speaking to me as if they saw me as an older sibling or friend. Once I finished telling them about the application process/financial aid application/grants, we were able to talk about what their opinions on college were and what stereotypes they have heard. There were a few students at the end that wanted to stay in touch for more information about majoring in Global Business and I let them know that they could email me whenever they had any questions. Overall, what I took away from this experience is the satisfaction of knowing that I was able to help guide students the way I was once helped when I was their age. As a first-generation college student, there are obstacles that somewhat discourage students from pursuing higher education. This can lead to a vicious cycle, but it only takes that one step to break the barriers and influence future generations to follow in your footsteps. I was able to successfully break that pattern and now feel the need to motivate others to do the same if it is something that they want to do for themselves or their families.
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