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Triton Firsts Triton Firsts

Highlighting First-Gen Grad Students

Triton Firsts is showcasing the everyday experiences of first-generation grad students at UC San Diego through short video reels created by the students themselves. From highlighting their grad programs, campus life, personal insights, and unique experiences, these “Day in the Life” videos offer a real and relatable look at what it means to be a First-Gen Grad student at UC San Diego. Watch, connect, and be inspired.

Ivan Valdovinos

Higher Education · Fifth Year PhD

Meet Ivan, a fifth-year PhD student in Higher Education and full-time Director of HSI STEM at San Diego Miramar College. In this video, he shares what life looks like balancing full-time work and grad school, while offering a real glimpse into the final stages of the PhD journey.

Jayanti Lahoti

Computer Science · First Year Master

Meet Jayanti, a master student in Computer Science. In this takeover, she shares a glimpse into her daily routine, from coding projects to roller skating.

First-Gen Advantages

Courageous: Look at you go! You’ve taken a bold leap, not just in applying to college, but choosing to attend. That alone takes courage. As a first-gen student, you're stepping into the unknown with the bravery to learn, grow, and do something new. This is just the beginning of an already courageous journey.

Resiliency: You’ve faced challenges head-on and kept going, even when the path wasn’t clear. Like Maya Angelou writes in Still I Rise, you rise above doubt, setbacks, and barriers with strength and grace. Your persistence and grit are proof that no matter what life throws your way, “like the dust, still you rise.”

Adaptability: As a first-generation student you learn to adapt to diverse situations and settings as you navigate higher education. You develop skills to adjust and thrive by managing schoolwork alongside real-life challenges.

Resourceful: Being first-gen teaches you to be resourceful, navigating systems not built for your success. This skill helps you survive and thrive throughout your college journey.

First-Gen Tips

Find your community: Having a community, such as friends or a club, will help you through college. Attend campus events and meet new people—you’re not alone in searching for connection.

Talk to your Professors: Introduce yourself and attend office hours to build relationships. Professors can provide guidance, research opportunities, and support beyond the classroom.

Ask for help: First-gen students don’t have to navigate everything alone. Staff, professors, and peers are here to help. Asking for help is a sign of strength, self-awareness, and resilience.

Embrace being first: Being first in your family can feel isolating, but you’re not alone. Embrace your first-gen identity as a strength and recognize the unique perspective it gives you.

In accordance with applicable Federal and State law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate, or grant preferences, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories.