First-Generation Student Spotlight

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What led you to college?

I always knew I wanted to go to college but didn’t know where or how to navigate it. My high school guidance counselor guided me to Westfield State University, where I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees. It was my mentor at Westfield State who pushed me to pursue a doctorate, which I’m finishing now at Northeastern.

What did your family understand, and not understand?

My immediate family didn’t really know what to ask beyond how classes were going. I did the FAFSA on my own, registered for my own classes, and networked on campus to build my campus family.

Who made the biggest difference?

Dr. Laurie Simpson, my Intro to Psychology professor. She happened to be the Director of Academic Advising, and one day after class she asked whether I qualified for Federal Work-Study. At the time, I didn’t know what that was. She picked up the phone, called the financial aid office, and got me one. I worked as a Peer Advisor, and in that moment I decided to get a master’s in counseling, a total career change from my bachelor’s in Movement Science. She helped me discover my purpose.

How has your relationship with your family changed?

My family has always supported my education. I am the first in my family with a bachelor’s, master’s, and soon a doctorate. Because of my experience, I helped both my mother and my sister earn their associate degrees at STCC, supporting them as they navigated their programs and policies.

Because of my experience, I helped both my mother and my sister earn their associate degrees.

Jason Phillips

What would you tell a first-gen student just starting out?

Explore campus and meet people. Get out of your comfort zone and make connections, because you never know who you’ll meet and the impact they’ll have on your life, just like Dr. Laurie Simpson had on me and my family.