First in the Family: Navigating Barriers, Belonging, and the Pursuit of Higher Learning

First in the Family brings together powerful narratives of first-generation students who have crossed borders—geographical, cultural, and social—to pursue higher education. Spanning continents and diverse experiences, the chapters explore themes of identity, gender, resilience, and belonging. From navigating privilege and overcoming shame to embracing agency and transforming lives through education, these stories reveal both the struggles and triumphs of being “first.” Each chapter offers a testament to courage, perseverance, and the transformative power of learning to uplift families and communities. Inspiring and deeply human, this volume serves as a vital resource for students, educators, and policymakers committed to expanding access and equity in education worldwide.

Editors

Uttam Gaulee is Professor of Community College Leadership at Morgan State University, Maryland and President of the STAR Scholars Network. Dr. Gaulee's research explores community colleges, international higher education, and global development. He earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration and Policy from the University of Florida. His research focuses on community colleges, international education, diaspora studies, and global development.

Krishna Bista is Professor of Higher Education at Morgan State University, Maryland. His scholarship focuses on global student mobility, international education policy, and equity in higher education. A prolific author and editor, Dr. Bista also serves as Senior Executive Vice President of the STAR Scholars Network. He earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership/Higher Education from Arkansas State University.

Courtney Brown is Vice President of Impact and Planning at Lumina Foundation, where she leads strategic planning, evaluation, and international engagement initiatives to expand access to learning beyond high school. With a background in education policy and performance measurement, she has published widely and is a frequent speaker on postsecondary success, data-driven strategies, and equity in higher education. Dr. Brown holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia.

Project Editors

Professor Mirka Koro, Arizona State University
Professor Meghan MacNamara, Morgan State University
Professor Eugene Hammond, Stony Brook University
Professor Stewart E. Sutin, University of Pittsburgh

Praise for this book

This book reminds us that transformation in higher education often begins in places we least expect, and with people too often overlooked. George F. Kacenga, PhD, Vice President of Enrollment Management, William Paterson University of New Jersey, USA

As the first in my family to earn a Ph.D. through my own hard work and determination, I can attest that this volume serves as a compelling blueprint for institutions committed to empowering individuals who are not only the first in their families—but the first to lead with courage and conviction. Jing Luán, PhD, Governing Board Member, MISK Schools, Provost Emeritus

An inspiring narrative emphasizing the need for democratizing access to higher education across cultures, while advocating for the need for more inclusive academic spaces. Pankaj Mittal, PhD, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities and Former Vice Chancellor of Bhagat Phool Singh Women's University, India

A priceless compass for educators, First in the Family charts the paths of their students' transformative journeys of discovery and perseverance, illuminating the way for them to overcome obstacles, transcend borders, and realize their dreams. Elena de Prada Creo, PhD, Vice Dean for International Affairs, Facultad de Relaciones Internacionales, Campus Universitario, Spain.

These powerful narratives beautifully capture how intercultural growth and academic resilience converge in the lives of first-generation learners, challenging racism, gender bias, and structural inequality. A moving testament to transformation, resistance, and intergenerational commitment. Sarah Carrica-Ochoa, Profesora Titular, Facultad de Educación y Psicología, Universidad de Naarra, Spain

A moving tribute to the grit and grace of first-generation scholars—this anthology is both an inspiration and a blueprint for a more inclusive academy. Pankhuri Aggarwal, PhD,Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, USA

A powerful collection of stories from diverse first-generation scholars, highlighting their struggles, resilience, and the vital role of support systems in achieving academic and personal success. Siu-Man "Raymond" Ting, PhD, Professor, Director of Graduate Programs, NC State University, USA

As a rural education advocate, this book is a valuable resource for academic praxis and serves as a compass to guide young scholars in promoting social justice. Arlyne C Marasigan, PhD, Professor, College of Advanced Studies, Philippine Normal University, Manila, Philippines

This volume situates the voices of first-generation university graduates in their own unique personal contexts and provides insight into the breadth of pathways that these graduates take to earn their degrees. As a first-gen graduate myself, the stories resonated, and will for others who are seeking guidance on how to be successful in this important life journey. Shannon N. Davis, PhD, Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs, George Mason University, Korea