Our Stories
Rochester Community and Technical College students, staff, faculty, and alumni who are first-generation students and graduates proudly share their stories and experiences.
Wyatt Rogowski
My RCTC People: I’m a social work student, and I work Tech Support.
My First-Generation Story: I knew that I would not make as much money as my girlfriend who’s a nurse so I didn’t want to be a burden on her, so I choose to come back to school to study social work.
My Advice for other First-Generation Students: Just be prepared to find some sort of regimen and stick to it. And don’t let the anxiety of life become too much because people do want to help.
Kodi Hoscheit
My RCTC People:
I work for the Vice President of Student Affairs.
My First-Generation Story:
I grew up in a small farm town in Iowa, and while I deeply value my hometown and the experiences it gave me, I knew I wanted to explore beyond its boundaries and seek out more diverse career opportunities. With my older sister’s guidance and her lived experiences, I navigated the college process and saw it as a chance to discover more about myself and my interests. After applying to several schools and visiting a few, I ultimately decided that this was the perfect time to challenge myself. Going to college out of state felt like the ideal way to embrace new experiences, take bold steps, and learn more about what I wanted for my future.
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
- Take advantage of events and programs: These experiences offer valuable career and personal learning opportunities. Even if you don’t enjoy something, it can still be a learning experience. For example, I once thought I wanted to be a teacher, but after volunteering in a classroom, I realized that while I liked education, teaching wasn’t for me.
- Read your emails: Your inbox is full of important information about resources and services that can help you succeed. Staying informed about what’s available can make a big difference.
- Talk to your classmates: You don’t need to be super outgoing to start a conversation. A simple chat with someone sitting next to you can lead to study partners or even great friendships. Building connections with classmates can make classes more enjoyable and improve your learning.
- Build your Self-Advocacy Skills: Self-advocacy skills are incredibly empowering, and learning to use them can open many doors. While you may not always get the answer you’re hoping for, what’s most important is how you approach each situation—with respect and a willingness to grow. Everyone at the college is here to support you, so don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Even if the response isn’t what you expected, be proud of yourself for taking the step to reach out. Self-advocacy is about clear communication and persistence, and every time you practice it, you’re building confidence and resilience.
Jason Bonde
My RCTC People:
TRIO Student Support Services; Women’s Basketball; Athletics
My First-Generation Story:
I first attended college out of high school because I wanted to play college basketball. I was never a great student because I simply did not like school. I loved sports and still do to this day. My first year was at a Minnesota university and got off to a rocky start as I was away from home for the first time in my life and I was not as successful playing basketball as I wanted to be. It was hard, it was challenging, and I did not know how to manage it. I soon left that school and transferred to RCTC. However, I did not give it a chance, as I became less interested in school than ever before. I stopped going to classes and eventually was kicked out for bad grades.
My turning point came five years later after working horrible jobs and going nowhere. I decided to reenroll at RCTC and start over. I was sick of working bad jobs that I could not see myself doing for the rest of my life. I reached out to the men’s Basketball coach and asked to join the team. My motivation for school was now different. I knew my education was the key to success in life. I wanted to use basketball to help me stay motivated and to help me earn a degree. I did earn a degree and then used that as motivation to achieve a master’s degree in education. Now I am working at RCTC as the Director of TRIO Student Support Services and as the Women’s Basketball coach. Life happens and we make decisions that affect us every day. Making the decision to go back to school was the best one I ever made. It changed my life and now I am working in an environment that I love and it doesn’t even feel like work. This is a passion and I get to do something every day that drives me to do better.
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
It is never too late to do something that will better yourself. The resources and the people at a campus like RCTC are endless. People who work here care about you and they will do what they can to help you. If you are motivated to get an education, you will. Many of us just need to find that motivation and what drives us. When I found what I wanted to do for a career, then school was easier since I was interested in the subjects I was studying, I was interested in learning what I would eventually use to help others. Rely on the people around you; no one in this world has ever been successful on their own. Learn from others so you may grow into the individual you want to become.
Alissa Oelfke, Ph.D.
My RCTC People: I work in Academic Affairs, as the Associate Vice President of Academic Operations and Institutional Effectiveness.
My First-Generation Story:
When I was in high school, I participated in a TRIO program called Upward Bound. I had always been a pretty smart kid, but my parents had not gone to college. They recognized that I could be successful in college, but they didn’t know how to get me there. They had 4 other kids at home, and both worked to make ends meet. They weren’t sure how to help me explore potential occupations or how to help me apply to different schools and apply for financial aid. But I had a mentor in Upward Bound who always told me I could be anything I wanted to be, if I put my mind to it. Upward Bound allowed me to live on a college campus during the summer months while I was in high school. I got to see what taking college courses was like, and I got to live in the dorms to see what that was like. During those summer sessions, they taught me how to be a successful college student, they took me on multiple campus visits, and they helped me complete my college applications and the FAFSA. I was accepted to Marquette University on nearly a full scholarship. I graduated with a degree in Math and a minor in Business Administration in four years, with very little debt. While at Marquette, I became a math tutor for their Upward Bound program, to see if I could inspire others the way my mentor had inspired me. A few years after I graduated from college, I had the opportunity to go to Washington, DC to share my story with legislators who were making decisions about which TRIO programs to continue funding in the federal budget. That trip made a big impact on me because I got to meet many other TRIO program alumni who had successful careers. We talked about the challenge of coming from a low-income, first generation college-bound situation and having the support from TRIO funding to help us get to a degree, and the impact that had on our professional lives.
Since then, I’ve had a successful first career in banking, insurance, and investment services, which led me to pursue a Master’s degree in Business Administration, and a PhD in Management Education. I started teaching during my MBA program, and have been working in my 2nd career in higher education administration ever since. Something else has happened since I received that first degree–my dad went back to school and got an accounting degree, my daughter has earned a degree in Arts Administration, both of my sisters went on to college (one of them also completed law school), and two of my brothers have degrees now as well. It just took one of us to go through to provide an example for the rest of our family–to show them that college is achievable!
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
I would probably give the same advice that I received from my TRIO/Upward Bound mentor so many years ago–find what you are passionate about and make that your work. It’s so important to love what you are doing. And–you can be anything you want to be if you put your mind to it! You can do it for yourself, but getting through college is likely to have a big impact on your family as well. You never know who else you might inspire!
Stephanie Lasala
My RCTC People:
TRIO Support Services, Student Senate, Technology Support Center for work study
My First Generation Story: As a first-generation student and the eldest child, I bore significant familial responsibilities and lacked the guidance and support that many of my peers had, whether it be financial support or having someone who went to college and is able to show me the ropes. I always knew that attaining a college degree was something my parents aspired for me, but I went to college because of my own determination and pursuit to break the cycle, as well as my goal to be in medicine which has now bloomed into an aspiring career of being a Physician Assistant. With courage and perseverance, I graduated at RCTC with such memorable experiences, as well as being a part of the Student Senate. I sought guidance for navigating the academic system and overall advice with my TRIO Advisor, Teresa Tolmie, where I was able to transfer seamlessly into the U of M Rochester and finished my undergrad with a Bachelor of Science Health Science degree. The support and guidance I received during my time here allowed me to be practical, resourceful, and see the future with open ended opportunities.
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
The barrier to entry may be discouraging to you, depending on the level of your circumstances, but if I can do it, you can as well. The main thing is that I didn’t do it alone. I had to muster the courage to put myself out there and ask for help. By doing so, you can meet people that will become a significant part of your journey. Times and circumstances change constantly, and I had to learn to be comfortable with uncertainty. As long as you know that you are giving it your best, you may be surprised where life takes you!
Meeah Underbakke
My RCTC People:
TRIO Student Support Services, including my advisor, Teresa
My First-Generation Story :
I decided to go to college because I want a career in Criminal Justice. I am not certain on a specific career choice, but I want to be able to get an internship somewhere in the forensics field or CIA and eventually start a career. I watched true crime with my mom all the time growing up and I still find it entertaining. I want to graduate from RCTC with an associate degree and then transfer to a university, take more criminal justice classes, and earn a bachelor’s degree.
My advice for other First-Generation students:
Don’t procrastinate on assignments! I used to feel like I could get more done by waiting until the night an assignment was due to submit it. But facing an assignment you are dreading to do or don’t want to take the time to do head on is the best way to go about it; it is kind of like ripping a Band-Aid off. And, don’t be ashamed to ask for help! Maybe you just need a little push to flourish and feel good about school and like doing it because I did too.
Katrina Maass
My RCTC People:
My First-Generation Story :
Growing up on a dairy farm, most of my normal duties included milking cows, cleaning the barn, sorting and moving cattle, feeding calves, helping deliver calves, driving tractor, unloading straw and hay bales and so much more. While I knew that the farming lifestyle was something carried on in my family for several generations, I saw the struggles it brought to my family both physically and financially. I began to see several small family farms around us slowly stop farming and sell due to the rising number of large industrial farms in the area. It was a constant battle for my parents to determine what they could afford and what cuts they had to make just to make ends meet. I knew that even though myself and my brothers had a great love for this life, it would only last so long. That’s when I knew that I had to go in a different direction. Since I did enjoy going to school and completing various assignments for certain classes, I knew college was my answer. It would open the door to several career options that I wouldn’t initially have.
I think it was in high school when I decided that I would be the first one in my family to go to college. Just about everyone in my family on both my parents side grew up farming so the fact that I was going to be the first one to go to college was frightening. While I knew my parents would support me, I knew I would have to navigate figuring out all the steps, documentation, resources, classes, etc. all on my own. I started asking questions, doing research and finding the people that knew the process and could help guide me on the right path. While it did take a lot of determination, drive, and courage, I ended up getting my Associate’s Degree in Accounting from Minnesota State College – Southeast Technical. I even managed to do so with zero student debt since I used financial aid and scholarships to pay for most of everything. After starting to work at RCTC, I decided to further my education even more and completed a 2+2 program with RCTC and WSU. Completion of that program gave me an Associate’s Degree in Accounting from RCTC and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with WSU.
My advice for other First-Generation students:
Annie Clement
My RCTC People:
MY RCTC people are in my department, as well as other instructors on campus. When I have a question about how to best reach a student, I start with my people! I also keep up with others around campus. I have people in IT who I know and will bug if I have a question, people who work in scheduling, our lovely office assistant (LeaAnn), plus advisors who will answer a call or email when I’m in a pinch. I’ve learned that if you are good to people, they will be good to you.
My First-Generation Story:
Growing up I was TOLD I was going to college. I hung out with my neighbors a lot growing up, and the mom, Gayle, was always pulling me along to drop her kids off at college, visit them at college, see a sporting event at their colleges, etc. She really made it seem I was just expected to go to school. Both my parents were supportive as well, my teachers and classmates all pushed for college too. I didn’t even think that not going was an option! Turns out, once I got to college I never really left! I’ve been either in school or teaching for a LONG time!
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
Relationships matter! Find someone, anyone you can connect with who can help you answer questions and seek out help. Keep connecting with these people as well, you never know when you are going to need something (like a reference letter!) or some interview help. Find a classmate you can lean on as well. Don’t be scared to chat with someone, everyone is always terrified at the start of the semester. Be the brave one – you won’t regret it.
Also, ask questions. College is “normal” to all of us working here and sometimes we forget that not everyone has been in college for as long as we have. All this stuff is new to you–so ask away! We will give you all the answers or point you in the right direction.
Macaya Copeland
My RCTC People:
Yellowjacket Women’s Basketball Team; TRIO Student Support Services
My First-Generation Story:
Honestly, I came to college for basketball, and I want to go somewhere with that. I was scouted by Jaide Pressley and Jason Bonde who came to my high school to watch me play and then they asked me to play at RCTC. This is my second year on the team. I also want to become a business owner some day in the clothing industry or essential oils. So, taking a couple of business classes might help with that.
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
Go to college because you want to go to college; don’t do it for other people. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and get help because if you don’t ask, you won’t get anywhere. I was afraid to ask for help at first and that ended up nowhere good.
Danielle Littleton
My RCTC People: TRIO Student Support Services
My First-Generation Story:
I applied to college because I wanted to give myself the opportunity to educate myself and get a job that I was passionate about! I was the first in my family to graduate from college. I received my Master’s Degree in School Counseling and Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with a minor in Disability Services. I earned both degrees at the University of Wisconsin-Stout!
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
Ask for help! When I was in school, I wish I had asked for help more often. I felt pressure to show that I could do it myself. Know that you don’t have to do everything on your own, TRIO is here to help you achieve your goals!
Nikka Vrieze
My RCTC People:
I am an English faculty member, advisor for the Student Support Services Club, Yellowjacket Fan, a mom to RCTC alumni (all three of our kids have their AAs from RCTC).
My First-Generation Story:
I don’t remember making the conscious decision to attend college; it was always just something I knew I was going to do. Even though I was born to very young parents who never graduated college, education was valued in my home. I feel very fortunate for their support and encouragement because I know many people do not have that same experience. I grew up in a very small farming and oil community in the Saskatchewan prairies, and I always knew that life had to be bigger than what I saw around me. There were very little opportunities beyond farm and oil work, so I knew that getting an education meant options and possibilities for me. I often think of my arrival at college like the scene in The Wizard of Oz when Dorothy arrives at Oz–life changed from black and white to technicolor full of new people, experiences, and opportunities.
My advice for other First-Generation Students:
My main advice is to remember that you belong. When we are the first, it can seem like we are walking into territory that is not designed for us. It can be daunting and scary and overwhelming. But, the rewards are worth it. Find your people. Make connections. Build relationships. And keep moving forward.
Emily Yang
My RCTC People:
Advising/Counseling Office, International Students, Multicultural Students, Multicultural Club, Equity and Inclusion Committee
My First-Generation Story:
There are two specific reasons why I attended college. The first is Upward Bound. During high school I participated in Upward Bound (a TRIO program that provides support to eligible high school students towards higher education) and as UB student I was given the opportunity to experience things I never would have considered doing on my own. I went on college visits throughout MN and WI, saw students that looked like me on college campuses, and met with professors. Suddenly college didn’t seem so far out of reach. Instead of being an option, it became the only option.
The second reason is my mom. For most of my life my mom was a single parent. A young Hmong immigrant woman with no formal education raising her children. Despite difficulties she had to overcome my mom was able to support her children through hard work and resilience. Seeing her work so hard to get by inspired me. The older I became the more I wanted better for her and myself. Simply put, I wanted more for us than what we had.
My Advice to First-Generation Students:
It will be hard, as it should be, but don’t give up! College on its own is challenging, it’s a new experience and for many the first time they’re on their own. You throw being a first-gen college student into the mix and it just adds to it, but there are always people on campus you can rely on for help and support! Take advantage of those resources! *Remember: common sense isn’t always common sense and for many it’s a privilege.
Tung Truong
My RCTC People:
I am an alumnus of TRIO Upward Bound and TRIO Student Support Services at RCTC. I currently work at RCTC as a TRIO academic advisor. As you can tell, I am a big fan of TRIO!
My First-Generation Story:
As a first-generation immigrant, I was conflicted between going to college or getting a job after high school to support my hard-working single mom. To be honest, I was leaning toward getting a job back then. We, as first-generation immigrants, faced many challenges from language barriers to culture differences to financial hardship. Back then, I just didn’t want to be a burden anymore and wanted to be a son who could support his family. Being the greatest parent, my mom didn’t allow me to not go to college. Instead, she told me it is her wish that I have the same opportunities as other kids. She always encouraged, but did not pressure, me to go to college and explore a career, not a job, that best fit my personality. Honestly, I went to college for her at first, but it was a decision that has benefitted me for a lifetime.
My Advice for other First-Generation Students:
College is not forever, enjoy it and learn as much as you can. Do not just learn from the books, though. Learn from your professors, advisors, friends, peers and mainly learn who you really are and become who you want to be.