If you know the experiences of 1st generation students, you know that they shoulder a lot of responsibility. Many of my students are caregivers for young siblings and sick parents, translators for their parents, form-fillers, homework helpers, and don’t forget they carry the hopes and dreams of their entire family.
While we spend a lot of time learning about the college-going process, career exploration, tutoring, etc., most of our time is spent on mental health needs. My students are overwhelmed and struggle to give themselves a little credit. They often come from homes where conversations about mental health are not the norm and sometimes, talking to their parents makes them feel worse.
Implementing a simple class procedure as a gratitude journal will not only teach students a proven-method to help ease their anxiety and stress, but will also allow us to start the class on a positive note and carry that into our work of college-planning. That may seem like easy work, but remember that these students are blazing a path as they walk it. The other resources help both students and I in our study of the first generation experience to better prepare for challenges and sharpen the vast skills they already possess.
About my class
If you know the experiences of 1st generation students, you know that they shoulder a lot of responsibility. Many of my students are caregivers for young siblings and sick parents, translators for their parents, form-fillers, homework helpers, and don’t forget they carry the hopes and dreams of their entire family.
While we spend a lot of time learning about the college-going process, career exploration, tutoring, etc., most of our time is spent on mental health needs. My students are overwhelmed and struggle to give themselves a little credit. They often come from homes where conversations about mental health are not the norm and sometimes, talking to their parents makes them feel worse.
Implementing a simple class procedure as a gratitude journal will not only teach students a proven-method to help ease their anxiety and stress, but will also allow us to start the class on a positive note and carry that into our work of college-planning. That may seem like easy work, but remember that these students are blazing a path as they walk it. The other resources help both students and I in our study of the first generation experience to better prepare for challenges and sharpen the vast skills they already possess.