Manjoban Kaur: First-Generation Story

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In honor of National First-Generation Student Celebration Week, the office of New Student & Family Programs will highlight a different story from a first-gen student each day. Read below to learn about Manjoban Kaur's story! To read more first-generation stories, stop by the Celebration from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Manjoban Kaur is a first-generation student from Little Rock, Arkansas. When asked about what she is studying and her invovlements, she shared, "I am a student, involved with many organizations. One is the VAC, I am a Dream B.I.G mentor and a project leader for one of the many projects for Make A Difference Day. I am also a member of the Hogs for Health and Women in Medicine clubs. To stay in tune with my culture, I am a part of the Indian Cultural Association and Friends of India clubs."

We asked Manjoban the following questions and have included her responses:

What does it mean to you to be a first-generation student/graduate?

Sometimes, I carry this feeling of guilt on my shoulders from leaving my parents three hours behind and experiencing this new chapter of my life. I often wish my parents had the same opportunities that I received. But, my parents sacrificed everything and anything for me to attend college today. Growing up, I witnessed them work long hours just to provide my brothers' and my birthday presents. For my 8th birthday, my parents bought me a pair of shoes that I didn't like. I threw a fit which lead to them returning the shoes the next day and buying me the pair I wanted. I wish I had not done this, but as a kid, I never realized how hard they worked just to get me one pair of shoes. When I am having a conversation with my friends about what our parents do and how much education they have, I am proud to say that my parents did not even complete high school. They worked so hard for me to have an education, and yet, here I am in the same room as you in college having a conversation. To be a first-generation student is to be resilient and independent, both traits that I endured from my parents. I can say this 100 more times: They worked immensely hard so that I can have what they never could due to their own hardships, an education.

Why is being a first-generation student/graduate important to you?

It is important to me to be a first-generation student, especially a daughter of immigrant parents because I would like to help first-gen students receive the support and acknowledgment they deserve. Growing up, I helped take care of my four younger siblings while my parents were working, all while I was a child myself. This is the greatest level of strength that I endure. To be like a second mom to my siblings is an achievement within itself because my parents were working long hours. Being a first-generation student is important to me because everyone back home is proud of me. I made it this far, and I hope to reach the finish line.

What piece of advice would you give to first-generation students?

Being the first to attend college was something that seemed unattainable at first because I did have anyone to ask for help. However, there are people that want you to succeed and have high hopes for you. Navigating college can seem overwhelming at times, but it is not impossible. My advice to first-generation students is to persevere and work hard.

Thank you to Manjoban for sharing your story!