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What is some of the stress that first year generations face from living with only one parent?

As a freshman student who is the oldest from 2 younger siblings, studying psychology. #consulting #students

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Jocelyn’s Answer

As a pioneer in my family, being the first to attend college, I encountered a unique set of challenges. One of these was the difficulty my parents had in grasping the full scope of the college experience. My mom, for instance, wasn't familiar with the ins and outs of preparing for the SATs, the process of college applications, understanding FAFSA, or even the demands of a full-time course load. She thought that my responsibilities were limited to attending classes. However, she didn't realize that a significant part of my college life involved working on individual and group projects, as well as dedicating time to study outside the classroom. Luckily, I wasn't alone in this journey. My younger sister joined the same college and we became each other's pillars of support throughout this exciting adventure.
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Alexandra’s Answer

My daughter is the first one in my family who was born in America and lives with me only. She faces many challenges: from people not knowing how to pronounce her name, to being asked if English is her first language, and feeling different from others. I always tell her that being a first-generation American with a single parent makes her path unique and exciting and that she can still achieve the same success in school as other kids and have fun, too! I emphasize to her that we speak English really well in the family but that she is happy and lucky to also speak a second language. I try to share our culture with her friends from different backgrounds by having playdates and attending social events. I encourage her to learn about the cultures of her other friends.

Alexandra recommends the following next steps:

Make a list of the things that stress you out and think about what you can do to address them
Make a list of the positive things about your situation and share those with friends
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Maryann’s Answer

I’m not sure that the challenges of being in a one parent household are generational. I have no personal experience here, but I believe that you and your siblings should be as supportive as you are able in helping each other while not sacrificing your goals and ambitions. You may wish to discuss this question with a professional counseler at your school.

Maryann recommends the following next steps:

Make an appointment with a school counselor
Be honest with your family about your concerns
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Melissa’s Answer

Hi Irma, I grew up with a single mother, and I'm a first generation 4-year college grad (my mom completed her associates in nursing when I was in elementary school). The challenges I faced in terms of going to 4-year college and getting my BA were not understanding how to navigate financial aid, scholarships, grants. I also figured out on my own how to get the college courses I needed at community college transferred to the 4-year school I graduated from. In the end, I paid for school on my own by working full time at a company that helped pay for college, and going to school full time. It was hard, and I was always tired, but it was worth it. One piece of advice I wish I had heard before I started down the path was, there is always money.... it's just a matter of knowing how to find it. So, don't limit your options based on $$$, but balance it with not taking out a ton of loans you have to pay back.
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