April 8, 2026
Jose Luis Gallegos '23
Submitted by Jose Luis Gallegos
My name is Jose Luis Gallegos and I am in my second semester of the Master’s Program in Counseling College Student Personnel (CSP). As a first-generation student, the STRIVE Scholars program has helped me to understand and navigate the educational system. Moreover, the program has assisted me in diminishing feelings that being first-generation student brings like self-doubt and feeling out of place. Here, I found support that helped me to develop a sense of belongingness. Furthermore, I have learned techniques to stay motivated and focus on my goals, increase my self-esteem, restore residency, and maintain confidence in my abilities. Also, through the program, I have met resilient people that have inspired me and taught me success is possible regardless of any circumstances. In addition to this, in the program I have learned methods to manage stress and stay in control of school work; this allows me to be more effective in my learning endeavor and submit assignments on time.
To learn more about the STRIVE Scholars program, visit http://bit.ly/Give2STRIVE