National First Generation College Celebration Week Nov. 4 8 salutes the first in families to pursue degrees

Gaiaby Vang, left, and Maddy Blaser, are two first-generation students at UW Oshkosh building a foundation for their futures.

Many college students venture into unfamiliar territory as they pursue degrees that can help secure their futures.

At UW Oshkosh, nearly 41 percent of students are the first in their families to pursue a college degree.

Two UWO first-generation students work as communication interns for the federal TRIO programs at UW Oshkosh.

Maddy Blaser, of Janesville, who is double majoring in Human Services Leadership and Art, aspires to teach art for a non-profit; and Gaiab Vang, of Stevens Point, who is majoring in public relations, hopes to work in PR for a national park.

To kick off National First-Generation College Celebration Week Nov. 4-8, Maddy was asked in a video, to show off a couple of her favorite places on the UW Oshkosh campus, and Vang was asked to share her first-generation story in a Q and A format.

First-generation student Gaiab Vang shares her story

What made you decide to come to UW Oshkosh?

I chose to come to UWO to embrace my independence. It was the perfect distance from home (Stevens Point, WI) where it's far enough to challenge myself to grow and learn how to stand on my own, but close enough to know my family's support was never too far away. This journey is about discovering who I am, pushing my boundaries, and building the confidence to thrive on my own terms.

What does being a first-generation student mean to you?
For me, being first-gen isn't about being the first generation in my family to attend college; it's about honoring the sacrifices and the journey of my parents, who traveled to the United States in 1987 as refugees after escaping the Vietnam War. Both my parents worked tirelessly to provide for our family while adapting to a new culture and lifestyle. My dad, a strong advocate for education, pushes me to go to school, believing it's the key to a future with opportunities. While I'm pursuing my education for myself, I'm also fulfilling the dream my parents sacrificed for, knowing it will open doors they couldn't access. 

What do you hope to do with a college degree?
I want to work in PR or communications for National Parks to promote the preservation and inspire others to connect with nature. This role would also give me the opportunity to explore more parks while raising awareness and encouraging responsible visitation to protect these treasures for future generations. 

What is your biggest motivation for working toward your college degree?
My biggest motivation for working toward my college degree is my family-especially my parents and grandparents. As immigrants, they worked incredibly hard and didn't have the educational opportunities I have today. My dad has always been especially supportive of my education, and I want to honor the sacrifices they've made. While it saddens me that my parents won't get to experience some of the opportunities I have, I'm determined to fulfill their dreams through my success and make them proud. 

What does being a UW Oshkosh college student mean to you? 
Being a UW Oshkosh student means discovering a sense of community where I truly belong, surrounded by people who share my passions and values. It's about exploring opportunities that help me find my purpose, grow personally and academically, and build a foundation for my future. It's a journey of self-discovery and connection. 

What services did UW Oshkosh provide that you found most helpful and why?
TRIO Student Support Service. Though I wasn't sure about my thoughts on it during my first year, I really appreciate that I stayed committed to this program. They have great staff members who want to help students succeed. I met my friends, my community of filling the role as a student mentor." 

What advice would you give to new first- generation students at UW Oshkosh?
I implore you to practice kindness-both towards yourself and towards others. Treat yourself with compassion and understanding and extend that same kindness to those around you.

For more information about the programs and services, including the federal TRIO programs, visit the UWO Center for Student Success and Belonging

A week of celebrating First-Gen

• Monday, Nov. 4-First-Generation College Celebration Week Kickoff, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Reeve Memorial Union, Concourse. Students can meet first-generation support staff, visit first-gen resource tables and score "First-Gen Proud" buttons, free popcorn and cotton candy.
• Wednesday, Nov. 6-Bring-A-Buddy Bingo, 5 to 6 p.m., Reeve Memorial Union, 227A. There will be free pizza and prizes for all who attend!
• Friday, Nov. 8, Tri-Alpha First-Gen Honors Society Fall Induction Ceremony, 6 to 7 p.m., Culver Family Welcome Center. Eligible first-generation students will be inducted in the nationwide honors society.

Learn more:

UWO Center for Student Success and Belonging

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