Lulu Diaz

I knew I had a good support system, but I didn’t think I’d make it. Being a first-generation student is very hard because of the high expectations. I tried to describe little aspects of college to my parents, but they didn’t understand because they didn’t attend college.

At the beginning of my sophomore year, my study skills started to go downhill. I think that was one of the first semesters I failed a class. I was like, “I don't think school is for me.” My parents said, “You can do it.”

Even though my parents told me all the encouraging words you can ever tell your child, I still thought to myself—What if I don't finish? What if I don't get through this? What if I'm going to be a disappointment?

My biggest worry was coming into college and not finding my people. I’m glad I always had Nebraska College Preparatory Academy [a college access program that prepares academically talented, first-generation students for college and future careers] as a support system. My friends in NCPA and I help each other through everything. Whenever we need to cry, we go to each other. Whenever we need to rant, we text each other.

The staff at NCPA is very encouraging in getting me out of my comfort zone. They’ve given me so much. In many meetings with NCPA staff, I learned not to put a lot on my plate because I didn't yet know how to navigate college.

I also started getting into the gym. The East Campus Rec became my home. Then, I fell in love with running. I ran every day, and I joined a running competition. I was tired of isolating myself and not going out. I decided to be courageous and bold.