I am among the first generation in my family to be born and raised in the US, graduate from a decently ranked small university, and now the first member of my family to attend Harvard.
From admitted students events to orientation to other pockets of student life, we’re fed the explicit messages that are always helpful to hear: You belong at Harvard. You should go to office hours. You have your community behind you.
I know these messages are meant in earnest, but this transition to an atmosphere of elitism is tough to swallow regardless of these assurances. My professional journey was not exactly every immigrant parent’s dream. As I dabbled in classroom teaching and non-profit work, volunteering my time in civic engagement efforts, I fielded lovingly critical questions about financial stability and my plans for the future. My parents didn’t totally understand my career path, in contrast to more clearly defined trajectories, such as those of a pharmacist or tax lawyer.
But they understood the significance of Harvard. They were thrilled to share among all their networks of overseas friends and family that I would be attending the esteemed 哈佛, and that they always knew I had the most promising intellect, among me and my two brothers.
As a student 2 months away from being deemed a “master,” I’ve had my share of first-generation grief. Wrestling with imposter syndrome, survivor’s guilt, and newfound Ivy League privilege– sometimes all in the same afternoon. It has been helpful to remember that these experiences are shared among classmates, even when some incidents feel particularly alienating.
I relied heavily on community, wherever I have been able to find and foster it. As co-chair of HGSE’s Pan-Asian Coalition for Education, I have been able to connect with leaders of other affinity groups and share strategies around maintaining our wellness and healing in a place like Harvard. For first generation students jumping on to this wild ride of elitism, I encourage you all to cultivate community wherever you can– among real conversations with classmates, through online communities of memes that ring true for you, and in frequent communication with your family and loved ones.
We’re not alone. Our community is with us. Go to office hours. Remember that we belong.
Blog written by Amy Jiravisitcul. Photo provided by Instagram.
Hello, I’m Amy! This is my 5th year living in Boston. Prior to starting at HGSE, I spent three years working at an education non-profit in the city that worked with middle school students in an academic out-of-school time program. Prior to that, I spent a year teaching foreign language at a Boston charter school and a year teaching in rural southern China. My hobbies include riding my bike, eating, political organizing, and reflecting on Asian American identity.
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