Intergenerational dreams

First-generation college student Débora Paez Perez found the right major later in her college career. See how her calling is also fulfilling a lifelong dream of her immigrant mother.

Getting a jump-start

Published on Mizzou Show Me News August 19, 2021 Abel Ambessie knows he likes soccer, the drums and Ethiopian food — but as a freshman, he wasn’t sure which track in the College of Business he wanted to pursue. He started in marketing, but it didn’t feel like the right fit. Then he met Jean…

When work meets luck

Published on Mizzou Show Me News August 19, 2021 Jesus Oropeza says he just got lucky, but hard work has a lot to do with it. Growing up in Brookfield, Missouri, Oropeza’s childhood wasn’t always a happy one. He was bullied, sometimes violently. His mom worked hard at a factory and still struggled to make…

Production Value

MU TRiO alumna and first-gen college student awarded at Sundance Film Fest

Community Committed

First-gen college student from Bolivia finds a home at the Center for Academic Success and Excellence.

Paying It Forward

MU School of Health Professions recruitment coordinator’s journey began as a first-gen college student

Lifesavers

MU Student Affairs Care Team helps first-generation college student settle in at Mizzou

Success … and Then Some

McNair Scholars Program helps first-gen college graduates go on to grad school

Poetic Justice

Love of verse, and a Mizzou scholarship program, lands first-gen college student on Oprah.

A Family’s Sacrifice for Success

First-gen college student from Venezuela follows his dreams to Mizzou