Being a first-generation student brings a very unique set of challenges to the college experience. There have been many times in my journey where I had absolutely no idea what I was doing and the familial support system that I would typically turn to for guidance really couldn’t help me because they never experienced the struggles I was having. This forced me to reach out for help far more than I ever had before as I sought connections with people on campus who could help guide me. Finding just one person you can trust and say, "Hey, I don't know what's going on and I need help," is vital.
Everyone knows someone who can help you find solutions, and everyone here at OU truly wants you to succeed as part of the OU Family. I never wanted to feel like I couldn't figure things out on my own, but I was so much happier and at ease when I finally allowed myself to realize it was not a weakness to reach out for support.
My OU experience has been one of ultimate exploration. I've been able to explore who I am and my passions every day I spend on campus. In my interactions with new friends, my student organization involvement, and my classes, I've learned a lot about myself and the world around me. I'm constantly surrounded by people who challenge me to think differently, and that has made me a more well-rounded individual. I've been challenged by so many things, from adjusting to life in the residence halls my first year to figuring out the perfect time to arrive at the football stadium for the best seats in the student section to deciding which path to take for my degree.
I was very much Sooner born and Sooner bred, but during my college search, I wasn't 100% set on OU. I felt like I should give other universities a chance because everyone expected me to attend OU, however, no matter how much I explored other options, I knew OU would be home. This is because, during my college search, OU was the only university where I felt most seen as a unique individual. I knew if I came here, I'd be valued as a member of the OU Family because that expectation had already been set through all the personalized communication and support I received as a prospective student. It showed me how much the OU Family cared for me, and I knew this was a place where I could find my community and thrive. To me, the people truly make this university what it is, and everything I saw as a high school senior has remained true throughout my time at OU.
I wish I had understood how easily accessible the OU Admissions Counselors are. I could have communicated with my admissions counselor way more during my college search for more personalized guidance. Admissions counselors are here to help guide you through the college search process and help you learn more about the University of Oklahoma and the opportunities waiting for you. Every prospective student is assigned an OU admissions counselor. Students can find theirs through the Connect with Your Admissions Counselor page.
I went to OU’s campus in Arezzo, Italy, and it was like a little Norman away from Norman. It was so exciting to explore the world in an environment where everyone expects OU students to be around. All of the locals were very welcoming and patient of us as students abroad. My trip was incredibly outside of my comfort zone. I had never been on a plane before until I took that 13-hour flight across the ocean by myself. I gained a ton of self-confidence by consistently challenging myself throughout the trip. We spent many of our days exploring art museums, cathedrals, and new foods. This experience is one I encourage everyone to pursue if at all possible.
Explore what opportunities await you at the University of Oklahoma through our first-generation student webpage.
