A Welcome Letter From Our Founder

Dear Reader,

Welcome to our Site!

My name is Lorena, my pronouns are she/her/hers, and I'm originally from Miami, Florida. I am a first-generation master's student at New York University studying Media Culture, and Communications with a research focus on education, media, and social justice. My thesis work in both graduate and undergraduate school has been focused on the first-generation student experience, and I've been using that research to develop the present and future of 1st Gen Yes You Can.

1st Gen Yes You Can was born out of my desire to create the kind of digital space for resources I wish I had when I was applying for college as a first-generation student. The name stemmed from the goal of fighting impostor syndrome, which often leads us to believe we don't belong in the spaces we aspire to be. I hope this space serves to help you feel worthy and capable of achieving success in any and all of the ways you personally define it. Our incredible team of first-gen students and alumni are here to provide resources and encouragement along the way of your personal, academic, and professional journey. We are here to connect, learn, and thrive alongside each other. I can't wait to see all we'll accomplish together.

With love and power,

Lorena