Kalamazoo College is proud to celebrate the successes of its first-generation college students, faculty and staff today on National First-Generation Day. November 8 was identified as the date because it honors the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965, which expanded college opportunities for low-income and first-generation populations.
Championed by the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Center for First-Generation Student Success, the day brings awareness to the strengths of first-generation students. At Kalamazoo College, we seek to affirm those strengths and the assets they bring to us by supporting, elevating and increasing their visibility on campus.
Here are a few stories of our students. We asked them about their involvement and activities, why they chose K and their advice for other first-generation students.
Anahi Barajas ’26
Involvements and activities: During my time at K, I actively engage in some student organizations, as treasurer for Latinx Student Organization (LSO), actively attending Women of Color Association (WOCA) and ¡Qué Chévere! Aside from student organizations, I am a career ambassador at the Center for Career and Professional Development, and I work at Media Services as a front desk assistant. I also participate in the Career Launch Internship Prep Program (CLIPP) to increase the probability of getting a summer internship.
Why I chose K: Visiting Kalamazoo College on top of hearing about the experiences from my high school’s alumni who came to K. Their experiences, with the beauty of the campus, alongside the financial aid package reassured me that moves from Texas would be worth it.
My advice to other first-generation students: Coming from Texas all the way to Kalamazoo has been a hard transition. But I would suggest being involved in different clubs and putting yourself out there so you can make friends, especially during orientation events. That’s when I met my best friend. I think you should put yourself out there and try new things. During winter try to keep yourself active and busy so that seasonal depression doesn’t affect you. There are so many resources out there, take advantage of them
Vanessa Barranco ’25
Involvements and activities: I am currently one of the co-presidents of ¡Qué Chévere!, a student organization dedicated to representing and celebrating diverse identities within Latino cultures. Additionally, as this year’s funding board coordinator, I assist in budget management and purchasing for all student organizations, working to ensure funds are allocated equitably across student organizations.
Why I chose K: As a senior in high school, I was nominated for the Posse Scholarship, and after multiple interview rounds, I was chosen along with nine other students to attend Kalamazoo College. Along with that, I was drawn to K’s open curriculum as well as the small class sizes that would allow me to receive more personalized attention from professors and be more involved with campus life.
My advice to other first-generation students: My advice to students is to go to school events and different clubs. It’s so important to find your people and your community, especially when you are away from home. Also, make sure to take advantage of the resources K has to offer!
Camila Benavides ’27
Involvements and activities: During my time here at K, I have been actively involved in several organizations that allow me to give back and connect with the campus community. I am a member of the Latinx Student Organization (LSO), where I help foster a supportive and inclusive space for Latinx students, creating a strong sense of community among peers who share similar backgrounds and values. Additionally, I am part of the Alpha Omega chapter of the Spanish Honor Society, which has deepened my appreciation for Hispanic culture and language, providing opportunities to connect with others passionate about our heritage. I am also involved in Kalamazoo Language Intercultural Partners (KLIP), where I volunteer at Lincoln International Studies School to help newcomers learn English, supporting them as they build confidence in their language skills and adapt to a new environment. Lastly, I am a member of the Kalamazoo Dance Team (KDT), which allows me to express myself creatively and connect with others through a shared love of dance. Each of these experiences has enriched my time at K in unique and meaningful ways.
Why I chose K: I chose Kalamazoo College for its commitment to diversity, social justice and a personalized education. The college’s unique K-Plan, with its emphasis on flexibility and hands-on learning, provides the perfect environment for me to explore my interests while remaining rooted in my values. I was also drawn to Kalamazoo’s small campus, which creates a close-knit, supportive community and allows for more personalized connections with faculty and peers. This focus on individualized academic paths and meaningful relationships made K the ideal place for my educational journey.
My advice to other first-generation students: My advice for other first-generation students is to seek support early on and build connections with faculty, advisors and peers. Don’t hesitate to ask for help and make full use of the resources available, like tutoring or career counseling. Remember that you belong here and there’s a community ready to support you every step of the way. Be proud of who you are and where you come from; your unique background is a strength and it brings valuable perspectives to the campus. Embrace each challenge as an opportunity for growth and know that your resilience and determination will help you succeed.
Abigail Gutierrez ’25
Involvement and activities: As an active member on campus, I regularly attend ACAPOC (an all People-of-Color a capella group on campus), Asian Pacific Islander Student Association (APISA) and Philipino American Student Association (PASA) meetings and participate in various campus events.
Why I chose K: I chose Kalamazoo College for its intimate community and the exceptional support I received during the admission process. This early experience reinforced my belief in the power of campus resources and the potential for meaningful connections.
My advice to other first-generation students: My advice to incoming students is to seize opportunities and take initiative. By proactively seeking out experiences, I recently landed an internship that allowed me to develop a new skill under the guidance of a supportive mentor. One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was moving out of state for college. This bold decision has fostered my independence and courage. I’m grateful for the personal growth it has enabled and the positive impact it will have on my family. I’m excited to apply the skills and connections I’ve gained at K to uplift my community.
Grace Leahey ’25
Involvement and activities: I am involved with Student Development as a First-Year Experience mentor and I’m the co-president of both the Hacky Sack Club and Kalamazoo College’s student chapter of the American Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB). I work for the chemistry and biochemistry department as a lab teaching assistant and grader. Additionally, I’ll be volunteering with Sisters in Science starting this winter.
Why I chose K: I chose Kalamazoo College because I really wanted to have the opportunity to foster connections with my professors and peers in a way I knew wouldn’t be available at a larger university. The interpersonal connections I have created during my time at K will continue to help me succeed in my future educational and career endeavors.
My advice to other first-generation students: I would advise any first-gen students to always ask questions. There are so many resources just waiting to be tapped into. Sometimes, it’s scary to ask for help, but K has taught me that there will always be someone in your corner. You do not have to do it alone and asking for help 100% does not invalidate your successes.
Micahaia Reynolds ’27
Involvements and activities: During my time here at K, I have participated in many organizations and volunteer opportunities on and off campus. I am vice president of Kalamazoo Bible Club, a member of the Black Student Organization (BSO) and the K College Cheer team, and have participated in the Women of Color Association (WOCA) and Sister Circle. I have performed in Afro Desi Sol (AFDS), an event that comes once a year to celebrate the collaboration and showcasing of different cultures and heritages, and spoken on a first-generation panel as part of our orientation week. I have also volunteered at El Concilio and Kalamazoo Central High School, working with elementary students as well as high school students who are new to the United States and learning English. I work with Community Advocates for Parents and Students (CAPS) and travel to a nearby community center to tutor students and help guide them toward achieving the Kalamazoo Promise. I am also a First-Year Experience mentor, where I assist first-year students through orientation and their first term at K as they begin navigating the college experience. Finally, I am currently on the Dean’s List, and have been selected to receive the departmental prize from the Department of Anthropology and Sociology at the Honors Day Convocation on November 8.
Why I chose K: I chose to attend Kalamazoo College for several reasons. One reason is that its reputation preceded itself in the recommendations I received. Another is its endless opportunities to get involved with nearby communities and build personal connections with the professors. Since coming to K, I have discovered so many more opportunities that I didn’t even know about before enrolling, such as the ability to network with people from many different fields regularly, the number of possibilities available for studying abroad and away, and the opportunity to explore different classes and career paths.
My advice to other first-generation students: To other first-gen students, I would say to never believe they’re alone because there’s always someone willing to help and support them. I would also tell them to not try to carry the world on their shoulders, that the people who helped get us to this point are so proud of us already, and there’s nothing we can do to disappoint them. Our presence is an inspiration to others whether we are always aware of it or not. Congratulations, you did it!
Michael Robertson II ’25
Involvement and activities: During my time at K, I have been involved with the Department of Theatre Arts since my sophomore year. I have been a member of Young Men of Color (YMC) for all four years and I am currently the vice president and treasurer. I am also a First-Year Experience mentor and a former collegiate football player for the Hornets.
Why I chose K: I chose K because I wanted to get out of my comfort zone. I also appreciate how small the campus is. It is extremely easy for me to find the resources that I need on campus. I am also fortunate enough to build relationships with my fellow students and professors due to how small the courses are. The school also has a great appreciation for art, which is a beautiful thing to see. It is also important to recognize how the school emphasizes academic success and how they promote their alumni networking, which has been extremely beneficial for me.
My advice to other first-generation students: My advice for first-generation students is to keep an open mind and always try new things. Do not be afraid to ask for help; there are so many great people and resources that are willing to assist you. I also encourage them to hang out with people different from you, because you can always learn from everyone. Be yourself, and embrace being different.
Leslie Santos ’25
Involvements and activities: My on-campus activities throughout my time at K have included 3 years as a resident assistant in the campus halls, two years as a career ambassador for the Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD), and one year working for the Office of Student Activities. I have also been on the e-boards for the Alpha Lambda Delta and Biochemistry Clubs. Lastly, when possible, I volunteer with the Food Recovery Network Club to take unused food from our campus cafeteria to give to community pantries.
Why I chose K: I was initially drawn to Kalamazoo College because of the Posse L.A. Scholarship which brought it to my attention and offered a financial and peer mentorship-based support system. I also largely chose to attend Kalamazoo College because of the small class sizes that allow for more one-on-one time with professors and a sense of close campus community. Lastly, there seems to be strong support for students in STEM such as the Math and Physics Center, learning support, and teaching assistant and student-instruction sessions.
My advice to other first-generation students: My main advice for first-generation students is to find mentors in a variety of areas (teachers, employers, upperclassmen and peers in your own grade). It’s important to get multiple perspectives for guidance and to help in the process of developing your character by modeling characteristics and habits from those you admire and surround yourself with. Also, it’s worth it to take the time to find (and use) the resources available to you based on your identities and needs.
