Renee Rottner

What advice would you give first-generation college students?

First, I wish I had known that there were others like me, especially on the faculty! College is challenging for everyone, but its even harder if you don't have someone in your family to give you some perspective. It might seem like everyone else in class finds the material easy except for you. You would, too, if you had gone to a prep school where you already studied the material or had older siblings who went to college and can tutor you. First-gen students often lack a network that they can turn to for answers to questions like what courses to take, how do I study more effectively and where do I go for help, how do I start my career, and even what questions should I be asking? So reach out to others who are in a position to help. Not just family and friends, but also your roommate's family, and of course, faculty and administrators who can give you insights into not only how to get the most out of college, but what comes after. No one does it alone. Some of the people to whom I owe the most gratitude were complete strangers who opened doors for me. Build a network and step through!

Renee Rottner
Professor, Technology Management Program
UC Santa Barbara