Celebrating First-Generation Students Breaking Barriers 

Blazing new trails in the face of significant headwinds, first-generation students at Middlesex College are a resilient, intrepid group that gain strength from the welcoming environment surrounding them. 

The journey of those students is recognized and uplifted with multiple events during the First-Generation College Celebration. The weeklong event, organized by Middlesex College Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) honor society advisors, began November 2 and includes multiple on-campus activities tailored to first-generation students. 

“My experience at Middlesex College has been one of the most wonderful of my life,” said first-generation student Madeline Torres Urena, who is studying social work. “I was anxious at the beginning, but I have received a lot of support from professors and administrators. They have guided me every step of the way and answered every possible question.” 

“My time at Middlesex College has been wonderful,” added Emmanuel Ojeda Medel, a first-generation student studying history. “My professors have almost all been unanimously great, and I find myself connecting with a lot of them.” 

The celebration started with a brunch on November 2, an opportunity for first-generation students, faculty, and staff to network and make connections. The events following throughout the week include a workshop examining barriers that shape access to higher education, a virtual seminar on building financial literacy, and an event for students to practice professional communication skills.  

Torres Urena’s family hails from the Dominican Republic. Both of her parents encountered obstacles toward attending school, facing either work responsibilities or transportation issues. Torres Urena, a Somerset County resident, is on track to graduate in the Spring with her associate degree in pre-social work and hopes to continue her education. 

“I want to become a clinical social worker,” Torres Urena said. “I would like to focus on working with children and their families in healthcare facilities. I want to be someone who can create a safe environment where children and families feel supported, understood, and heard.” 

Ojeda Medel’s parents are from Mexico and work in the food industry. They had hoped that one of their three children would attend college since they were unable to. 

“My dad is a head chef and got to that point through experience alone,” Ojeda Medel said. “Learning of his journey greatly inspires me and helps me believe that with the opportunities he and my mom have given my siblings, that perhaps I could one day carry their legacy further.” 

Ojeda Medel, a South River resident, started at Middlesex College studying business but had a change of heart and switched to history. He’s on track to graduate in the Spring and plans to transfer to a four-year college.  

“Being first-gen makes me feel special because not only do I have the opportunity to continue enhancing my education, but I have the ability to break barriers that have existed for generations,” said Torres Urena.  

Special can have different meanings, but what defines Middlesex College first-generation students is a determination that is bolstered by taking advantage of resources to go where no one else in their family could. 

“As I continue to thrive in higher education, I have seen family members and friends become inspired to do the same,” said Torres Urena. “I hope that I can continue being an inspiration to many individuals who doubt themselves.”