The transition from high school to UT Austin wasn’t easy for social work major Grace Farley. As a first-generation college student, the application process was a challenge in itself. But becoming a full-time student brought even more stress and pressure.
Farley eventually learned that adjusting to college life isn’t an overnight process. She is now helping other students like her on campus thought her position as resident assistant (RA) for the university’s first dorm for first-gen students.
“I wanted to be an RA because they’re close to first-year students and support them as they go through the difficult journey of learning how to love themselves,” Farley said. “I’m comfortable with the messy and complicated parts of life. I want to be a friend and an ally to my residents as they face setbacks.”