Jesus Alberto Garcia

Name: Jesus Alberto Garcia

Hometown: Pittsburg

Role on campus: Student, majoring in cellular and molecular biology

Years on campus: 2

Why did you choose Chico? I chose Chico because of the homey vibe I received the second I stepped on campus and the community.

What first sparked your interest in a college education? Realizing within myself that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to through hard work and determination.

What were some barriers that prevented others in your family from completing a four-year degree? Some barriers that prevented others in my family from completing a four-year degree were limitation in resources and overall shortage of support from their schools and community.

Who can you point to as a mentor or inspiration in your pursuit of a four-year degree and why? My parents serve as an inspiration throughout my pursuit of a four-year degree because I’m offered the opportunity to attain something they were unable to as they were growing up.

What does being first-gen mean to you? Being first-gen, to me, means representing my family, friends, and community through all the challenges I face and working toward a greater tomorrow.

What challenges do you struggle with or have you overcome as a result of being first-gen? A challenge I overcame as a first-gen student was the fear of making mistakes. Instead, I am thankful of those mistakes, which have molded the person I am today.

What is your wildest ambition? To spread my positivity through hundreds if not thousands of people and impact their lives.

What message do you want to send other first-gen students? A message to other first-gen students is to keep learning, keep striving. You will get there!