By Nicole Millan, Fellow Class of 2017
University of Denver
As a first-generation college student, my journey was extremely difficult. The pressures of being the first in the family to graduate were accompanied by a feeling of disorientation. I did not relate to anyone in my classes. Many parents who had gone through the process of college and had connections already set in place. I found that being Mexican American in a predominantly white institution not only affected me through a racial standpoint, but also a socio-economic one. Students in my political science classes had already established their credibility through the clothes they wore, the credibility of their parents, and the way they articulated their thoughts. I quickly acknowledged the disadvantage of my situation compared to that of my peers. Thankfully, with the love and guidance I received during my time at the University of Denver from my friends, mentors, and supporters at Law School Yes We Can, I was able to build strong connections and maintain a healthy balance of professionalism while also preserving the aspects of my identity that made me unique.
I am grateful for my mentors, who have been with me since the beginning of my college journey and have helped shape me into the hard-working and driven individual I am today. I will forever be grateful to my mentors for regularly reminding me to apply for scholarships, internships, and jobs when I did not have the motivation to do so. I cannot thank my mentors enough for the time they have invested into our relationship. With their consistent support, I studied abroad in Spain, served as Vice President of a prestigious program, The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, worked various jobs on campus, and systematically applied my time in order to graduate one year early.
Law School Yes We Can has become more than a program to me; It has become an extension of who I have am. I am encouraged by the experiences of my mentors, peers, and all of the amazing lawyers (past and current) that are involved in the program. More importantly, I feel heard and part of a community. I will not be alone in navigating life after college. With the guidance of Judge Arguello, and all the other amazing individuals that have encouraged me to grow, the road to success post-college does not seem as daunting as it once did. The journey will not be an easy one, but Law School Yes We Can has will continue to help guide me through every obstacle.
