I am glad that you’ve chosen WVU to be a part of your academic journey. The Chambers College is very happy to have you here.
Being the first in your family to complete a bachelor’s degree is an accomplishment of which you should be exceptionally proud. The traits that have gotten you here – determination, persistence, resourcefulness – will serve you well as you work toward degree completion.
Not all of our students are first-generation, but someone in every family was. As we take time this week to celebrate students like you, I encourage the entire community to attend the Chambers College's panel discussions this Wednesday to learn about first-generation perspectives.
Whether or not your immediate family has experience in higher education, I don’t want you to feel alone. The Chambers College has a team of dedicated professionals who are here to make sure you have what you need to be successful.
Don’t hesitate to talk to your advisor whenever a question arises, or you feel overwhelmed by the demands of college. We will be implementing new programming that has been specifically designed with you in mind. Be on the lookout for more info coming your way soon.
It sounds trite, but the world is truly at your feet. I was a low-income, first-generation student from a very small town. Higher education changed my life. It will also change yours. The road isn’t always smooth. But those bumps, curves, and detours make us who we are. We’re strong.
In closing, I want to congratulate you for your accomplishments thus far. I look forward to witnessing your future successes here in the Chambers College. Please feel free to reach out to me.
Best Wishes,
Rebel Smith, Ed.D.
Associate Dean for Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
"Let's Talk Business" is a series of guest blogs written by members of the Chambers College community. All views expressed in this post are the author's own.
Interested in contributing to Let’s Talk Business? Get in touch here.
