WINTER 2020–2021 13 If you would like more information on how you could become involved with supporting First-Gen students at DBU through prayer or financial gifts, please contact the DBU First-Gen Advisory Council at first-gen@dbu.edu. public institutions, so DBU is eagerly searching for funding sources to establish a DBU scholarship for First-Gen students. DBU’s goal moving forward is to increase a sense of belonging among DBU’s First-Gen students and foster an awareness of the academic, financial, and social resources DBU has to offer First-Gen students. The aim is these initiatives will increase the retention and graduation rates of DBU’s First-Gen students. After on-campus support has been increased, DBU aims to recruit more First-Gen students. DBU not only desires to attract First-Gen students so they receive a Christcentered education, but to also see these students graduate in a timely and fiscally-sound manner. “Being the first in your family to attend college can feel lonely and overwhelming,” said Hannah Sullivan, “but I can tell you that if you find a university that supports you and wants you to succeed, you will never feel lonely. Be the change and make history for your family.” DBU is excited to see all the First-Gen Advisory Council accomplishes in the future. Faculty and staff members all across DBU’s campus support and pour into First-Gen students daily with the hope that one day, they too will proudly walk the stage, ready to take on the callings they have received from the Lord. “Deciding to continue my education here at DBU is a decision I will never regret,” reflected Hannah as she thought about advice for other students. “Take the leap of faith, and I promise you will not be alone.” “From a very young age, I knew I wanted to pursue higher education because it was something my parents never had, but I was given the opportunity to pursue it.” Cendy Sanchez First-Generation Student “My curiosity for knowledge was cultivated by my grandparents, especially my grandfather… In high school, I chose to follow his path, leading me to pursue a college education as the first step.” Nate Antioch First-Generation Graduate
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