Alex “Rieka” Tatacoya

What does being a first-gen student mean to you? 

Being a first gen student really shaped who I was in my family. Everyone expected me to succeed, and still do, so it is something really stressful. But it is something I take pride in because I am doing what my parents sacrificed so much for. To succeed in where they could not, or continue down the path they could not finish. 

Why are you excited to be a first-gen mentor?

I am excited to be a mentor because I do want to help the students. I had mentors too and they were all amazing. They guided me through the hardest times and were always there. I want to help just like they helped me.