Jasmine Amigon

What does being a first-generation student mean to you?
To me being a first-generation student means trying to navigate a road no one in your family has ever been down before. At first it’s challenging because you don’t know what’s to come nor have anyone close to you to provide advice on how to proceed, but eventually, you figure out your way. As a first-generation student I’m not just working to push myself forward, but to push my family forward as well. As the first in my family to go to college, I know I am setting an example for my younger siblings and cousins, and showing them that it is possible despite challenges they may face. Also, my parents have worked long hours to provide for my siblings and me, and because of this, I want to show them the work they put in is paying off. 

What advice do you have for other first-generation students?
Don’t let self-doubt consume you. You’ve made it this far so keep going and if you need help along the way don’t be afraid to reach out. There is always someone there to help. Also, get involved on campus. There’s so many clubs and activities NYU has to offer. You’ll get the chance to meet people and learn about their experiences. Hearing what others are doing might actually inspire you to figure out what it is you want to be doing.

Favorite place to eat or hang out on campus? 
The Commuter Den at Lipton Hall.

What do you hope to do after NYU? 
As a public health student, I'm interested in health disparities. After NYU I hope to do some advocacy work and further explore issues possibly around food access and malnutrition.

Email: lbb346@nyu.edu  

Major/Minor: Computer Science
Anticipated Graduation Date: Spring 2020
Where do you call home? Long Island, NY
Campus Involvement: AAP Mentor, P2B1 Mentor, Director of Community Service for The Gentlemen Of Quality

Yasmine Elasmar

What does being a first-generation student mean to you?
As a first generation student, I am familiar with the embodiment of what I like to call, the “Grit Factor”- a continuous determination to work my way through every obstacle, despite the resources not always being readily accessible. However, my journey at NYU would not have been possible without my family’s unconditional support system. I am fortunate to have my family to always back me up 100% of the time, and push me to become the best version of myself. I see being a first generation student as an accomplishment on behalf of my family, and I am intent on making them proud. With their help, I have been able to surpass and surmount every obstacle thus far, and I know that I am equipped with the tools necessary to continue to be successful. 

What advice do you have for other first-generation students?
My advice to first generation students is to get involved no matter how frightening and daunting the thought may be at first. If you find a club that even slightly peaks your interest, give it a try! I encourage you all to always keep in mind your best interest, and take part in activities that you truly enjoy. Your time at NYU as an undergraduate student is finite, so that time should be spent achieving the best version of yourself. That simply cannot be done if you let opportunities pass you by!

Favorite place to eat or hang out on campus? 
My favorite place to eat on campus is Sweetgreen, Ono Bowls, & Ramen Takumi.

My favorite place to hang out is at Washington Square Park, Lipton Commuter Den, and Peet’s Coffee in Kimmel.

What do you hope to do after NYU? 
After NYU, I hope to attend Medical School in New York or New Jersey. My goal is to become a Pediatric Neurologist and investigate the development of neurodegenerative diseases from childhood into adulthood.

Email: akj311@nyu.edu

Major/Minor: Sociology/Politics
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2020
Where do you call home? Queens, NY
Campus Involvement: Proud to Be First Mentor, America Reads Tutor, and Co-Service Chair for the Opportunity Program’s Mentoring Initiative.