Julio Flores is a first-generation student in the Department of Construction Management at Colorado State University. Flores’ commitment to his studies is inspired by his father’s journey. 

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

What it means to be a first-generation student: words cannot simply explain how amazing it is. My parents have worked so hard throughout their entire lives. My father was an immigrant. He was never able to take advantage of going to school or anything like that. So, he felt that in order for his kids to have the best life, that they would need to make something of themselves. Whether it be through college or trade school or something similar, I wanted to take that opportunity and show him what I’m made of. 

What would you tell other first-generation students? What advice would you share?   

I would tell someone who was in my shoes, my freshman year, don’t be scared. Always be open to questions and be a sponge. Always try to absorb as much knowledge as possible. 

At the end of the day, you’re in college, you’re here to get an education. That’s what you’re paying to go here for. 

What comes to mind when you hear the words “first-generation student?”  

When I hear the phrase “first-generation student,” I think of someone who is scared, because of a new experience that they or someone they know, haven’t gone through before. From that, I also get humble as well, because first-generation students are so understanding. They might not have a lot of money or experience, so I could easily see them being the most humble people you could ever meet. 

The Department of Construction Management is part of CSU’s College of Health and Human Sciences.