Laura Juarez San Juan is currently in her sophomore year at the University of Arizona.  Pursuing dual degrees in Literacy, Learning and Leadership through the College of Education, and Hispanic Literature through the College of Humanities, she finds herself busy with coursework each semester. However, San Juan is actively involved in the Blue Chip Leadership program, is an Ambassador for the College of Education, and works as a Thrive Center Peer Mentor. This summer she plans on studying abroad in Mexico through the program Vivir Mexico to promote literacy for family and youth members. San Juan aspires to work for an educational institution to help improve retention rates amongst first-generation college students and eventually teach Spanish.

“I’m proud to be a first generation college student because I have been able to work towards obtaining a degree, despite the many barriers that I have faced throughout my educational journey. I take pride in being raised by a single mother who worked hard to provide for her daughters. I feel grateful to have the opportunity to receive a higher education, proving that minority students have strong potential. I like to be a role model for others and break stereotypes against students like myself.” - Laura Juarez San Juan

When Dr. Desiree Vega graduated from Binghamton University in 2006 she became the first member of her family to graduate college.  Dr. Vega was a First-Generation College Student.   She went on to receive both an M.A. and doctorate in School Psychology from The Ohio State University before becoming faculty first at Texas State University and now at The University of Arizona.  Dr. Vega is passionate about supporting First-Generation College Students, and now serves as the Faculty Fellow for First Cats and the Thrive Center.