As a first-generation college student, there’s often fear, uncertainty, and a constant feeling of being out of place. You may feel lost or doubt your ability to succeed, especially when no one in your family has walked this path before. If there’s one piece of advice I would give to another first-generation student, it’s “Fake it till you make it.” In high school, I had a strong desire to stand out and leave a mark. I wanted to be remembered and I did so by becoming one of the top leaders in my marching band. But I didn’t start off that way. When I first auditioned for a leadership role, I had no idea what I was doing. I wasn’t the best player, the best marcher, or even the most confident.That changed when my band director, Dr. Luckett, gave me some simple yet powerful advice: “Fake it till you make it.” I took those words to heart. I carried myself like a leader, even when I didn’t fully believe it yet and over time, I became one. I improved my playing, earned a spot in the region band all four years, consistently held first chair, and received compliments for both my teaching and leadership. More importantly, I became a friend and mentor to those around me. Peers would come ask me for advice, questions, or just to hang out due to me being more of a friend to them. They confined in me to lead them to success or to just hear what they have to say and improve the fundamental layout of our band. I’ve carried that same mindset into college. Like many others, I faced rejection, especially during my first year. I applied to multiple jobs and was often passed over or placed on waitlists. One of the hardest rejections came from a peer advocate role I really wanted. But I didn’t let it stop me. I took the feedback, refined my approach, and applied for a position as a Supplemental Instructor (SI) Leader. This time, my confidence and preparation shone through, and I was offered the job. There will always be competition, and people who may doubt your potential but that should never stop you. As a first-generation student, your presence alone is powerful. You belong here. So walk into every room like you do. Even if you don’t feel ready, act as if you are. Fake it till you make it — and eventually, you will make it.

As a first-generation college student, there’s often fear, uncertainty, and a constant feeling of being out of place. You may feel lost or doubt your ability to succeed, especially when no one in your family has walked this path before. If there’s one piece of advice I would give to another first-generation student, it’s “Fake it till you make it.” In high school, I had a strong desire to stand out and leave a mark. I wanted to be remembered and I did so by becoming one of the top leaders in my marching band. But I didn’t start off that way. When I first auditioned for a leadership role, I had no idea what I was doing. I wasn’t the best player, the best marcher, or even the most confident.That changed when my band director, Dr. Luckett, gave me some simple yet powerful advice: “Fake it till you make it.” I took those words to heart. I carried myself like a leader, even when I didn’t fully believe it yet and over time, I became one. I improved my playing, earned a spot in the region band all four years, consistently held first chair, and received compliments for both my teaching and leadership. More importantly, I became a friend and mentor to those around me. Peers would come ask me for advice, questions, or just to hang out due to me being more of a friend to them. They confined in me to lead them to success or to just hear what they have to say and improve the fundamental layout of our band. I’ve carried that same mindset into college. Like many others, I faced rejection, especially during my first year. I applied to multiple jobs and was often passed over or placed on waitlists. One of the hardest rejections came from a peer advocate role I really wanted. But I didn’t let it stop me. I took the feedback, refined my approach, and applied for a position as a Supplemental Instructor (SI) Leader. This time, my confidence and preparation shone through, and I was offered the job. There will always be competition, and people who may doubt your potential but that should never stop you. As a first-generation student, your presence alone is powerful. You belong here. So walk into every room like you do. Even if you don’t feel ready, act as if you are. Fake it till you make it — and eventually, you will make it.