SKYCTC celebrates first-generation college students and their journeys

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College recognized first-generation college students Tuesday during its First Gen Day celebration, highlighting their achievements, challenges and the resources available to help them succeed.

The event, held Nov. 10 in the Social Staircase Lobby of Building L on the college’s main campus, included student stories, panel discussions and a $200 scholarship presentation.

The celebration was supported by a $5,000 national grant awarded to SKYCTC to recognize and support first-generation college students.

Heather LaRue, retention and resource coordinator at SKYCTC, said approximately 61% of the college’s nearly 7,000 students are first-generation college students, according to information collected through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. She said the actual percentage could be higher because not every student completes the application.

LaRue said many first-generation students face challenges beyond their coursework, including financial difficulties, time management and navigating college without family members who have experienced it themselves.

“They’re having to figure out life and adulting while trying to figure out college,” LaRue said.

To help students overcome those barriers, SKYCTC offers several resources, including its Pathfinder Pantry, emergency financial assistance and child care support.

LaRue said the college can also help students with expenses such as rent, school supplies and required uniforms for certain academic programs.

For Kendra Duncan, a first-generation student studying business administration, earning a college degree represents an opportunity to change her family’s future.

“I’m breaking a generational curse,” Duncan said.

Duncan, who also serves as president of the Student Government Association and a student ambassador, helps other students navigate campus resources, academic courses and scholarship opportunities.

She said the experience has allowed her to support students who may feel uncertain about attending college, including older adults returning to school.

Duncan plans to graduate in December and continue her education at the University of Kentucky.

Another first-generation student, Javier Fernandez, said his college experience has included the additional challenge of learning English after moving to the United States from Cuba.

Fernandez, who is pursuing nursing, said adjusting to a new language while keeping up with his studies has been difficult, but support from his parents and instructors has helped him stay motivated.

“What keeps me going is, I’m motivated because I want to help my parents. I want them to have a better life,” Fernandez said.

He said his family remains proud of his progress and that he hopes to use his education to give back to them.

LaRue said the celebration serves as a reminder that first-generation students have people and resources available to support them throughout their education.

“That they’re not alone and that they have support,” LaRue said. “We’re here.”