As a first-generation college student, I did not know where to start with internships. I felt like everyone around me was prepared and knew everything. Hearing others talk about their networking and people they knew in the industry already left me confused because I didn’t know where to start. I didn’t have parents or relatives who could help me because they had never experienced this before. I had to figure it out for myself.
I’ve always felt out of place. My mom has constantly reminded me that if I’m granted an opportunity, it’s because I earned it. That reminder brings me a sense of comfort. Still, it can be intimidating to be in a professional setting and wonder if you’re doing everything “right.” I realized I was being too critical of myself, especially when it was my first time learning how to speak professionally and develop my own elevator pitch.
Over time, I started to realize that no one really has it all figured out. In reality, we are all just college students trying to figure out post-grad life. I began to take small steps, such as going to career fairs, asking professors questions, and reaching out to people, even when it felt uncomfortable. Each experience taught me something new and made the process feel a little less overwhelming.
I also learned that being a first-generation student comes with its own strengths. I’ve developed resilience, independence, and the ability to adapt quickly. Instead of seeing my background as something that set me back, I started to view it as something that set me apart. My perspective, work ethic, and determination are things I carry into every opportunity, and those are traits my parents taught me.
Now, I’m still figuring things out, but I’m more confident in doing so. I’ve learned that it’s okay to ask questions, not to know everything, and to grow along the way. Internships are not just about gaining experience; they’re about learning how to navigate spaces that once felt unfamiliar. And with each step forward, I’m not only building my future, but I’m showing myself that I belong in these spaces too.