Breaking Barriers and Building Dreams: First-Gens Can!

On this First-Generation Celebration Day, I stand proud to share my journey, one marked by resilience, hope, and a burning desire to change my world and uplift many people. Throughout my life, I haven't had a roadmap or generations of college graduates in my family to guide me. My path was self-paved, driven by a deep belief that education could be my gateway to something greater. And with each step, I’ve learned that success is not about having a flawless start but about persevering, even when the odds seem stacked against you.

I grew up in a small displaced village, and access to education was something of a luxury. In my community, education was not highly valued because it was often hard to fund the needed resources and costs it comes with. From an early age (during primary, junior high, and senior school), I worked alongside my parents and siblings, farming, trading, and even venturing into the forest at night to search for snails "anything that could bring in a little extra". My childhood was marked by the simplicity of rural life, but also by the determination that one day, I would push through the limitations that often defined our lives.

The struggles of my early life were only the beginning of my journey. After junior high school, when my family moved to Greater Accra, Ghana, I started helping my mother in selling herbal medicine on the streets. Carrying the baskets/pan full of herbal medicine throughout the bustling neighborhoods, I was often met with ridicule by other young people. Those moments were difficult, but they taught me the resilience and humility that have guided me through life. Sometimes, the laughter stung, but it also strengthened my resolve. In those hours, days, weeks, months, and years on the streets, I found inspiration to work hard and dream big to pursue my senior secondary education. Guess what, "I did".

As I began my undergraduate studies, finances were still tight, so I took up another job as a street food vendor selling rice and beans. This time, I was often met with mocking glances from university students who saw me as a 'fine-looking tall guy’ doing “menial” work. I chuckle now at the memory of their surprised faces when they later saw me in lectures, focused on my studies, and determined to succeed. Every job I took and engaged in those days taught me something new, and each day brought me one step closer to my goal.

Throughout my academic journey at the University of Cape Coast, I engaged in extracurricular activities that helped me grow. Five experiences, in particular, stand out: being the attending Model United Nations, serving as Secretary-General of the University of Cape Coast Model United Nations, founding the United Nations Students Association of the University of Cape Coast, Natives Foundation and EmpowerEd Futures Project to support quality education for disadvantaged students, working as a Scholars Mentor with WAAW Foundation Africa, and acting as National President of the Religion Students Association of Ghana. These roles helped me develop the leadership skills and adaptability necessary to thrive in various environments and to give back to my community.

I was awarded and honored with over 22 awards; Tertiary Student Author of the Year – Ghana Tertiary Prestigious Award 2021, Certificate of Recognition Ambassador Award - University of the People, Outstanding Sustainable Development Goal (SDG4) Advocate of the Year 2022 and Among the top 100 Most Impactful Change Makers in Ghana same year - Humanitarian Awards Global, Youth in NGO Development – Youth Empowerment Consortium Ghana 2022, Student Author of the Year 2023, and Most Outstanding Teaching & Research Assistant, Faculty of Arts, University of Cape Coast in 2021 etc.

Today, I celebrate a milestone that goes beyond a simple academic achievement. For me, earning an Associate of Science in Business Administration from the University of the People, a Bachelor of Education (History & Religion and Human Values), and a Master of Arts (Religion and Human Values) from the University of Cape Coast, and now pursuing another Master's degree in Higher Education the at University of Massachusetts Amherst is nothing short of breaking a generational barrier. I have overcome what was mostly considered a generational curse in my family, and I carry that accomplishment with so much pride.

Now, as I work toward my goal of becoming a student affairs professional, my passion to see others succeed drives me forward. My experiences allow me to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, especially those facing their struggles. I hope to create an inclusive, supportive environment where every student feels empowered to reach their fullest potential. I want to ensure that no student I come into contact with feels like their background limits their ability to succeed.

As we celebrate the 2024 First-Generation College Celebration with FirstGen Forward , I am reminded of the courage, resilience, and hope it takes to carve one’s path. I’m reminded that we, as first-generation students, are not just breaking barriers; we’re rewriting narratives. We’re showing that despite the odds, we can succeed, we can lead, and we can inspire others. So, to everyone reading this, especially those facing challenges in their educational journey and professional life, remember that every scar, every setback, is a part of your story. Don’t give up. Keep moving forward because your dreams are worth the fight.

To all the first-generation students reading this: I see you, and I’m cheering you on. You have the power to shape your future, to rewrite what’s possible, and to inspire others along the way. Let’s keep breaking barriers and building a legacy of courage, resilience, and impact.

NB: Before you finish reading, I want to share that I am actively seeking opportunities to continue my growth and contribute meaningfully to the field of higher education and student affairs. With a passion for fostering inclusive environments, championing equity, and empowering students from all walks of life, I am ready to bring my experiences, dedication, and vision to new spaces where together, we can create transformative change. If you come across any opportunities that align with my vision, be it collaborations, mentorship roles, or professional placements, I’d greatly appreciate your connection or referral.

#CelebrateFirstGen #FirstGenPride #FirstGenerationSuccess #Resilience #StudentAffairs #CareerSuccess #YouCanDoIt #HelpCollegeStudentSucceed #StudentAffairs #HigherEducation #DiversityandInclusion #Networking NASPA - Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education NASPA Region I ACPA–College Student Educators International NODA American Association of Blacks in Higher Education