Celebrate First-Gen: Jaskaran Dhatt '23

What does being a first-generation college student mean to you?

To me being a first-generation college student means that I am someone with a unique opportunity. I am the first of my family to go to college, which means that I get the honor of blazing a trail for my younger siblings and cousins. I have been given the chance to grow and push past boundaries and barriers and to help ease the journey for those following me. The college experience is one that has had its ups and downs, but through it all, I remain thankful for the growth and knowledge it has afforded me.

How does this shape your college experience?

It has allowed me to learn to be very independent. While I have great support from my family and I have found great resources here, there is much that I have had to learn to do myself or figure out where to go, and for what, and what so and so means. But learning to power through and handle challenges of any aspect is what allows for real growth and experience, and that is what I think college is all about.

What are some of the challenges you face? What are some of your proudest achievements as a first-generation college student?

A challenge I have faced was learning time management as I juggled getting the hang of college life, academic load, and time spent on athletics. Some of my proudest achievements have been making the Dean's list, being a recipient of the GNAC XC All-Academic Team, and being elected ASSMU President.

Why did you go to college?

To help pave the way for my family and others, and to have the opportunity to grow and learn in the environment of knowledge and challenge that is college.

What resources were most helpful for you?

My professors, mentors, and friends were all great resources in explaining things I did not understand or know about. Along with pointing me toward places where I could get the help I might need.

How did this experience shape and inform your work as a campus leader, student, and athlete?

This experience is still shaping me and I am still learning as I go through it all. But for now, it has added to my want to make sure that as I lead and go through life, I make sure to create environments that are as welcoming and easy to understand for anyone as possible. The best thing for anyone going through anything in life is to know that they are in environments where they are supported, appreciated, and able to grow.