Northern Michigan University hosted a celebration of first-generation students, faculty and staff on Friday, Nov. 6, highlighting a large portion of NMU’s student body.
First generation students are students whose parents or legal guardians have not completed a bachelor’s degree.
Dean of Students Mary Brundage said the event was an opportunity for first generation NMU students to mingle and make connections with each other, as well as an opportunity for first generation faculty and staff to be able to “serve as role models for students.”
Brenden Yannella, of Stock Bridge, Mich, said he was drawn to NMU for the culinary arts program, adding that as a first generation student, his first two years were all about building himself up and getting comfortable in a college setting. Now a senior, Yanella has joined ROTC and developed a new sense of confidence and accomplishment.
“I feel it’s been both an enlightening experience and a hardship trying to figure this out on my own. Building these connections is what’s helped me keep my head up and keep on keeping on,” Yanella said.
Another student in attendance, Kenny Ericson, chose Northern because it was close to home. On the cusp of graduating in December with a degree in Public Relations, Ericson said “the most important thing is my parents seeing me finish college.”
Brundage said in the last 10 years, up to 37% of all students on campus reported as first generation on their application to attend NMU. However, she said many students don't know that they’re first generation, likely making that number even higher.
That large number is “good for all of us to keep in mind,” Brundage said, emphasizing the importance of making academia accessible and welcoming to all students, knowing that a large population of NMU’s student body is operating without generational guiding experience.
“It’s inspirational,” said Brundage, looking at the large group of first generation students, faculty and staff talking together.
“We did it,” said Brundage, “they can too.”