Sally Romero
Sally Romero
Reference & Instruction Librarian, University Library
M.L.I.S in Library and Information Science, San Jose State University
B.A in Communications, Cal State Fullerton
What advice would you share with our first-generation college students?
Network and connect. I know, it might feel scary or pointless, or you might feel like you don't have time or energy, but Cal Poly Pomona has many resources and services available to you. The moment you network and connect with something/someone on campus you will truly feel how much you belong here. Everyone on campus is here to help and see you succeed. Please feel free to stop by and visit me at the University Library-you are always welcomed!
What was your experience as a first-generation college student?
As a first-generation college student I felt very alone navigating the system all by myself. My parents had no clue about registration dates, add/drop, wait lists, parking permits, school fees & tuition, prerequisites, course reserves, internship requirements, submitting proper documentation for graduation before deadline, or ordering/buying regalia. I had the fake-it-til-you-make-it attitude. I did not realize all of the services that were available, because I had no one to tell me. My first couple of years, I never visited my advisor nor visited my professor's office hours for help and ignored the "join our club" pleas. I was a commuter. I traveled from home to school to work, back and forth every day of the week. I never had time for anything.
I was so nervous to go to office hours but after chatting with a professor for a bit I realized they were just as human as I was and they genuinely showed interest in me and my story. After that, I opened up to visiting my professors for help. With their guidance, I was able to graduate in three and a half years.
I also had a great support team at work where I was working as a paraprofessional in my field. People are always willing to help one another if you let them.