First-Generation Student Spotlight

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What led you to college?

I’ve always been an incredibly curious person, and I genuinely love learning, especially from professors and people who challenge my thinking. I’ve also always been ambitious about the kind of life I want to build.

And for me, college presents me with exactly that.

What did your family understand, and not understand, about what you were signing up for?

They understood that college is more than a lot of money spent for a piece of paper. It’s the experience of learning. Funnily, they don’t even remember my concentration! They’ve always supported my decisions, which is a big deal in itself. Not every Indian family supports a daughter’s career choices; a lot of women are asked to put marriage before education and career.

When did you realize you’d be navigating this without a roadmap?

During high school and after. My parents didn’t know about concentrations or which roles would suit me, so I often felt I was in this alone. It wasn’t that they didn’t want to help; they just didn’t have that knowledge. When other kids knew things because their parents told them, I’d think, oh, I don’t know so many of these things.

Going from undergrad to a master’s in a new country, with three years of work experience, was all my decision. With guidance, I might have avoided some mistakes along the way, but it worked out. And my parents did everything they could to help.

Was there a moment you felt you didn’t belong?

Always, especially around families that prioritized academics. I’ve been judged because my parents only graduated high school, even though they are extremely successful and incredibly knowledgeable. That judgment stays with you, even when you fight it.

What resource made the biggest difference?

This is funny, but the internet and YouTube were my biggest help.

What skill have you built out of necessity?

Research (which is literally my job, too), and never stopping. This isn’t pressure. It’s an opportunity my parents didn’t get, and I will not waste mine.

This isn’t pressure. It’s an opportunity my parents didn’t get, and I will not waste mine.

Nikita Tiwari

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

Don’t be afraid, and never make your parents feel less-than.