A Walk in My Shoes: First Generation College Students and Military Life

Q: What did you learn from this documentary based on some of the students' journeys you

watched?

I learned about how military children face unique problems like frequent moves,

deployments, and separation. Similarly, first-generation college students also confront challenges

due to their different cultural and financial backgrounds. Nonetheless, their stories show how

important it is to believe in oneself and have strong support networks to achieve goals.

Q: What do you feel were their personal challenges or barriers?

Their personal challenges included adjusting to new environments, coping with family

deployments, and feeling disconnected due to frequent relocations. They also experienced

language challenges, financial difficulties, cultural adjustment, and misgivings about their own

talents.

Q: What were the achievements and good experiences they may have had?

Despite hurdles, the youngsters excelled academically, became role models for their

families, and made great contributions to their communities. Good experiences included meeting

helpful mentors, appreciating their potential, and understanding the importance of education in

influencing their futures.

Q: What are similar life experiences you may have had in life or college?

Like the students in the documentary, I've struggled to balance academic and personal

duties. Furthermore, I understand the difficulties of navigating unfamiliar situations, making new
friends, and dealing with uncertainty during life transitions like moving to a new location or

starting college.

Q: If you could offer advice to them through their journey or on the topic in general what

may it be?

My advice is to be resilient, rely on support networks, trust in oneself, and view every

obstacle as a chance for progress. It is critical to seek mentors, advocate for oneself, and never be

afraid to ask for help and meet new people.