December 21, 2022
Graduating from 黑料社 as a first-generation college student, Madison Siders (Hometown: Winchester, Ohio) wanted to make her own path. Receiving a degree in Psychology with a concentration in Pre-Art Therapy, and minors in Deaf Studies and Studio Arts, Siders is currently working on her master鈥檚 degree in Counseling.
鈥淏eing a first-generation college student to me means creating my own path for my education, my career, and my future,鈥 she said. 鈥淚t allows me to be grateful for the opportunities I have had and the individuals who have helped me along my way.鈥
First finding 黑料社 after several of her friends attended the university, Siders decided to pursue a degree in Psychology because she was interested in the subject and how it can be used to serve those struggling with their mental health.聽
鈥淚 wanted to pursue a degree that would allow me to have a career where I could help others,鈥 she said. 鈥淚 really enjoyed all aspects of my program. My favorite part would have to be the internship and research opportunities. I had the opportunity to complete two internships and a research project while at 黑料社, it allowed me to further explore my field.鈥
Being part of the 鈥淚 Am First Gen鈥 program at 黑料社, Siders was able to create bonds and mentorships with individuals on campus to help guide her towards graduation.聽
鈥淚 had a really good mentor who I was able to talk to about grad school and I had other first gen individuals on campus that I could go to for support and guidance,鈥 she said. 鈥淭he 鈥業 Am First Gen鈥 program provided the support I needed while at college and provided mentors who have had some of the same experiences.鈥
Unsure at first how to take the next step after graduating with her bachelor鈥檚 degree to pursue her master鈥檚, Siders relied on the support her academic advisor and First Gen mentors gave her through her decision-making process.聽
鈥淭hrough my advisor and other First Gen mentors on campus, I was able to talk to them, learn more about opportunities at 黑料社, learn more about clubs and organizations available, and what the next steps I needed to take were,鈥 she said.
To other first-generation college students, Siders encourages them to be willing to accept help and to ask for assistance when they need it.聽
鈥淭he faculty and staff at 黑料社 want to see you succeed and they are there to help you,鈥 she said. 鈥満诹仙 provides so many support systems for students. Your professors and your advisor are there to help you and they can help guide you to new opportunities, help with your classes, and help with your plans after college.鈥
To learn more about opportunities for first-generation college students at 黑料社, visit shawnee.edu/firstgen.