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Perspective: The Pride And Pressures Of Being 'First Gen'

For the second year, we're turning this week’s Perspectives segments over to Breja Fink's A.P. Language and Composition class at Beloit Memorial High School. 

Ah, college! The topic of stress for high school seniors.

Although I am not a senior, college is pounded constantly into my head, like a hammer to a nail.

“Why?” you ask.

Four words: first generation college student.

Being a first gen student has given me a perspective on education. Not everyone has the opportunity to go to school and get their diploma. Yet there are students here in the U.S. who do not take school seriously while having resources to assist them.

On the other hand, here I am being enrolled in A.P. classes and involved in extracurriculars, working part time, taking care of siblings while not having the same amount of resources compared to other peers. My parents did not receive an education because they had to work at such a young age. So they want me to have a good life with an education.

It is frustrating to see students not take full advantage of this opportunity. Imagine yourself in my position: Studying until 3 a.m., stressing about getting that 4.0 GPA, helping your parents realize that their choice of crossing the fury of the border was worth it.

In the end, being a first-generation student is special. Realizing how lucky I am to be in the U.S., being able to say, “I graduated!” If it wasn't for my parents’ sacrifices to immigrate here, I wouldn't be here writing this.

Education is precious. Take advantage of it for you, but also for your parents.

I'm Pedro Rosales, and that's my perspective.

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