It is a blessing that CRSM alumni can return to campus to share their experiences after graduating. Just before we went on Spring Break on March 21st, Eileen Rodriguez (CRSM ‘23) spoke to our students at Friday’s assembly about her experiences as a first-generation college student at Hope College.
Eileen shared that CRSM was a comforting community for her to rely on, and she is glad to have found a similar level of support at Hope College through her friends and extracurriculars like flag football. She urged current students to do the same once they get to college, emphasizing the importance of a support system when moving to an unfamiliar place.
Eileen iterated what it was like being a first-generation college student surrounded by others who were not. “At CRSM, we’re more similar than students at my school. We’re mostly first-generation and from a low-income background. When I went to college, people thought it was unique and cool that I was a first-generation college student. Just know you are unique in this as well.”
Eilleen expressed how the CRSM community has made her feel valued, encouraging current students to embrace this mindset in all their endeavors. “Know that you’re valuable, and know that you’re worth much more than you think. Honor that in school and yourself. Prioritize yourself, and go forth and set the world on fire,” she concluded, echoing the inspiring words of Principal Dr. Odiotti.