First Generation Students Are Driven to Succeed

Learn from four determined students how they’ve overcome challenges as first generation college students on their paths to successful futures.

October 23, 2024 -

Being the first for anything can be overwhelming and exciting at the same time. Taking charge of your future career – and  livelihood – by being the first in your family to go to college is no exception. Students who do take that step are known as “first generation students,” or “first gen.” At Lakeshore College, we welcome first generation students and admire their determination to succeed for themselves and their families.

First gen students make up 71% of Lakeshore’s student body. They are as diverse as anyone can imagine, though all have chosen education as their path to a successful future. They are strong. They believe in themselves.

“I deserve a higher education, I deserve a stable future. We all deserve to succeed.” 
-- Toni Neuser, Manitowoc

After having completed her certificate in Introduction to Industrial Welding earlier this year, Toni is pursuing her technical diploma in Welding-Industrial. Mastering this in-demand skill can open many doors to a long and successful welding career.

To help support Toni and other first gen students, Lakeshore takes extra measures at all points in their educational journey. One example is TRIO Student Support Services, which offers many opportunities for first gen students of all ages to build and enhance their social, financial, and academic experiences. All first gen, low-income, and disabled students are encouraged to join this welcoming community. 

Riyan Lehman, Associate of Arts, home school 2018 graduate and first generation Lakeshore College student

Riyan Lehman, Associate of Arts, home school 2018 graduate and first generation Lakeshore College student
"All the accomplishments you have are from all the hard work you put in.”
—    Riyan Lehman, Associate of Arts, home school 2018 graduate and first generation Lakeshore College student

First Generation Student Chosen as Lakeshore’s Ambassador

IT-Cybersecurity Specialist student and TRIO member Kyle Blaha says after overcoming years of addiction and incarceration, he sometimes doubted himself but knew he had to forge ahead toward his goal of graduating from Lakeshore – for himself and his twin sons. 

“As a first-generation college student and father of twin three-year-old boys, I want to create generational change and inspiration for my boys to pursue their dreams.” – Kyle Blaha, Mishicot

While working full time, Kyle has embraced college and is sharing his story across the Lakeshore district and Wisconsin while serving as our 2024-25 Wisconsin Technical College Ambassador. Kyle says he holds an “attitude of gratitude” for Lakeshore’s supportive resources including scholarships, leadership programs, TRIO events, and our onsite child care center.

Challenges Don’t Stop First Gen Students

Among all programs to choose from at Lakeshore, the Nursing-Associate Degree is among the more challenging. That isn’t stopping Amber Madden and Ciara Szydel. 

Amber is a married mother of two sons who for various reasons, didn’t pursue her dream of becoming a doctor or scientist after graduating from Manitowoc Lincoln High School in 2012. While going through chemotherapy years later, she realized the only regret she had in life was not continuing her education due to doubting herself. 

Last year, Amber was selected as the sole recipient of the Nurse Think Pre-licensure scholarship from the Wisconsin League of Nursing. She has received multiple honors for her achievements at Lakeshore and served as a student spokesperson regarding the benefits of learning in our new Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Center for Health Care Excellence. No more doubting for Amber. 

Ciara also knows how overcoming the odds can be challenging, but worthwhile.

“If you ever think you can't do something because the odds are so heavy against you, remember there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle that you face. It always seems impossible until it’s done, and the worst you can do is fail, learn, and try again.” – Ciara Szydel, Manitowoc

Learn How First Gen Students Succeed

Anyone interested in learning more from Toni, Amber, Ciara and Riyan is invited to attend Lakeshore’s free “We All Deserve to Succeed” event focusing on the journeys of first gen students. They’ll be happy to address all your questions and concerns.

Thursday, November 7, 2024
11 am-1 pm
Lakeshore College, Cleveland

11 am-noon: Lunch
Noon-1 pm: First generation student panel with Q & A

Get details and register for the event at gotoltc.edu/first-gen-event and learn more about Lakeshore’s first gen efforts at gotoltc.edu/be-the-first.