Q&A with First Generation Student Danielle Shoulders ’24

Danielle Shoulders ’24 has embraced her journey as a first generation student with resilience and enthusiasm. She’s transferred from a small college in Ohio and is now thriving at Pace, not only pursuing a bachelor’s in Environmental Studies but also actively engaging in student clubs like the Black Student Union and working in various internships to ensure she’s career-ready.

Danielle's story may feel familiar to many other first-gen students. Fortunately, Pace’s first generation student community has helped her forge lasting connections of like-minded people who understand both the ambitions and hurdles that come along with navigating college as a first-gen student.

She shared her unique experience as a first generation student and how Pace's supportive environment has been instrumental along the way.

What does it mean to you to be a first generation student?

To me, being first generation acknowledges that my college experience is different because of my parents’ degree status. I fully understand that not only am I striving to finish college, but to also make my parents proud by completing my degree and experiencing the full college experience they didn’t get to have.

As a first generation student I carry a lot of responsibility. It can be tempting to procrastinate on my homework or to sleep in instead of going to events, but I want to always take full advantage of being in college and not waste a second. I also try to prepare myself for my career while I’m in college by participating in a variety of opportunities, like internships and club positions.

What are some of the challenges of being a first generation student?

A unique challenge of being a first generation student is not being able to ask about the college experience from my parents. I have overcome this by making my own support system of reliable college resources, other students, and supporting faculty. Pace has a wide range of resources and events that college students can attend to learn more about the ins-and-outs of college.

Why is it important to be part of a first generation student community?

Finding community with other first generation students helps me go into a place where people understand the same struggles. It can be hard when you see other students always a step ahead while you grasp to understand the college system. Some first generation students don’t even know they are first generation, let alone where to go for financial help. College is an expected challenge when you have parents who have already experienced it, but for a first generation student it’s a surprise at every turn. Having a community where you don’t have to explain what you go through is a genuinely important safe space.

Why did you choose Pace?

I transferred to Pace from a small college on the outskirts of Ohio. During my first year I realized that it wasn’t the place for me and during a hard time I just sent in an application. I was so excited to see my acceptance letter from Pace that I burst out crying. Pace was my opportunity to explore my passions, find a diverse community, and live my true college experience.

What’s been the best part of your Pace experience?

The best part of my Pace experience has been creating community. I’ve met people that will be in my life forever. My first week I made so many friends that now, two years later, we are still as close as ever. I also have created connections with professors to deepen my academic understanding and network with other professionals in my field. Finding my people has been the most impactful part of my Pace experience.

Pace is my home, and it holds memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.