Tell us why you chose Ball State University.

When I first came to Ball State, I felt right at home almost immediately. I envisioned myself thriving here. When you interact with Ball State students, faculty, and staff, you can feel the community and the support system that you have here.

What made you the most nervous about coming to Ball State? How did you navigate those concerns?

I was nervous I was not going to be able to represent myself as a first-generation college student the way I did in high school. Other worries—such as, not knowing anyone here, coming from a small town, and whether I would have a support system—filled my head.

I was able to overcome that by engaging with professors and other students to make connections and discover opportunities for myself, especially within the First-Gen connection community. I attended community conversation events and tabletop talks. I had to put myself out there in order to create a community for myself.

What are the qualities and experiences you brought with you to Ball State that have helped you succeed in college?

I think one of the most important qualities that I brought with me is networking. When you begin to network, you open a door with endless opportunities and connections that could benefit you. Even if you are not interested [in those opportunities], you can refer them to people who are. This allows you to have multiple connections that could help you later.

What has been the most difficult part of the college experience for you?

In the beginning, I had a hard time discovering what I was here to do. Being able to let go of all expectations was a struggle I dealt with.

Being a first-generation college student born to immigrant parents, I was always told that my parents migrated here with nothing to offer me everything. I felt that I owed it to them to do well and represent my culture well. As a Salvadorean-American, I’ve had to represent two flags, two cultures, and two languages. I had to find the balance between making my family proud and being self-fulfilled. When you find this balance, you are able to enjoy what you are doing while representing your roots. I now take pride in pursuing what I love to do.

Tell us about your proudest moment(s) at Ball State University.

Dr. Emily Rutter, associate dean of Honors College, nominated me to go to the Indiana Statehouse for Ball State Day at the Statehouse. That was really one of my highest moments here so far. I was able to represent the Honors College and talk to people at the Statehouse about the sort of things our Honors College does. Of all the students out there, I got nominated. That was such a rewarding moment for me.

Looking back, what is something you know now that you wish you had known during your first few weeks at Ball State as an incoming student?

Invest time in self-care. Just because you have free time does not mean you have to fill that time with other commitments. I should have relaxed a bit more and eased into things, especially with this big transition into college life. Overwhelming yourself with clubs, events, and meetings is not a good way to start your collegiate journey. Plan a little downtime for yourself every now and then—but stay on track with your class work and your activity commitments.

What is one piece of advice you would share with first-generation students preparing to attend Ball State, or who are in their first year at Ball State?

Find what you’re passionate about doing in life and why you are doing it. This is an important thing to do, especially for young, first-generation students like me. Find the reason why you drive yourself to be better. Once you find this, do not close the door behind you. Leave it open and take others with you. You may be the first in your family, but do not be the last. Find your why.