Samer

Samer graduated after summer of 2018 with a concentration in political science and then transferred to Columbia University in New York City. He is both a first-generation college student and a first-generation American. His legal status kept him from attending college right away, but he stayed focused on his commitment to attend school with a plan to eventually get into politics. Samer discusses his struggle with math, and how he overcame this challenge. He utilized the Wellness Center and the Advising Office and highly recommends club involvement to help students build community.

Timestamps

Introduction & Background 0:00

Your Big "WHY" for Going to College 0:57

Picking a Major 1:46

Moment of Doubt 3:03

Being a Non-Traditional Student 4:34

How did you stay motivated to go to college? 5:59

Asking for Help 7:34

Prioritizing Time 9:57

Resources & Supports 11:30

Resources & Supports: The Wellness Center 11:56

Resources & Supports: Advising 13:31

Resources & Supports: Clubs & Organizations 14:56

How would you define success? 16:00

What is the purpose of a college education? 16:52

What was the best thing about attending the City Colleges? 17:18

Message to the Administration: Support the Alumni Association 17:40

Message to the Students 18:30

Message to the Faculty: Most Influential Professor 19:41

Resources & Supports: Faculty 20:56

Message to Faculty: How to be Approachable 21:21