‘Being first-generation is not a limitation’: Q&A with EOP counselor Jocelyn Tejeda

As part of its celebration of First-Generation Week, Buffalo State hosted “First-Gen Forward,” an event uniting current first-generation students, alumni, and area professionals for a night of networking. Jocelyn Tejeda, senior counselor with the university’s Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) program, served as the keynote speaker. 

Through her work with EOP, Tejeda supports students as they navigate the college experience and pursue their goals. As a first-generation college graduate herself, she understands the importance of access to resources, mentorship, community.

“As a first-generation college graduate, I recognize that education has the power to transform not only individual lives, but also families and communities,” Tejeda said. “With opportunity comes a responsibility to extend a hand to others and help create pathways for those who follow. In my work with students, I am reminded of how meaningful it can be when someone takes the time to listen, offer guidance, or recognize potential that a student may not yet see in themselves. These seemingly small moments can have a lasting impact on someone’s educational journey. My hope is that first-generation students recognize the significance of their accomplishments and, as they continue to grow, find meaningful ways to contribute to the success of others.”

At the event, Tejeda shared her journey, advice for students, and why celebrating first-generation students' accomplishments matters. In case you missed it, here are just some of the pieces of wisdom she had to offer.

Buffalo State University: Can you share your journey as a first-generation college student and how it shaped who you are today? 
Jocelyn Tejeda: Growing up in the South Bronx as a Dominican Afro-Latina, I never imagined the places my educational and professional journey would take me. As a first-generation college student, I navigated unfamiliar spaces while learning to advocate for myself and discover opportunities I didn’t always know existed. Some of my most transformative experiences happened outside the classroom through student organizations, joining a sorority, leadership opportunities, and relationships with mentors who challenged and encouraged me. These experiences helped build my confidence, expand my perspective, and develop skills that would eventually open doors to opportunities I never imagined, including working with organizations such as HBO and NASA, traveling the world, and exploring different careers. Looking back, I recognize that my journey was shaped not only by my own determination but also by the people who believed in me and invested in my growth. Today, those experiences inform my commitment to helping students navigate higher education and recognize possibilities beyond what they may envision for themselves.

BSU: Why do you think it is important to recognize and celebrate first-generation college students? 
JT: Recognizing first-generation students is about more than celebrating an educational milestone; it’s about acknowledging the significance of their journeys and the families and communities that helped shape them. First-generation students bring valuable perspectives, experiences, and strengths that enrich our campus communities. Their accomplishments often represent new opportunities not only for themselves, but also for those who will follow in their footsteps. National First-Generation College Celebration Week provides an opportunity to recognize these contributions while bringing greater awareness to the challenges students may encounter navigating higher education. It also reminds us of our responsibility as institutions to address barriers and create equitable opportunities for student success. Celebrating first-generation students means recognizing both what they have achieved and the value they bring to higher education.

BSU: What advice do you have for first-generation students who may feel overwhelmed or unsure of their path? 
JT: First, give yourself permission not to have everything figured out; college is a time for exploration, discovery, and growth. Stay curious, ask questions, and be open to experiences that may challenge you or take you outside your comfort zone. Build a community of support by connecting with faculty, staff, mentors, and peers who can offer guidance and encouragement. Remember that asking for help is not a weakness, but an important part of advocating for yourself and your success. Equally important, embrace your identity, culture, and lived experiences rather than allowing others to define who you are or what you can accomplish. Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s, and being the first doesn’t mean you have to figure everything out alone.

BSU: What makes Buffalo State a good place for first-generation students, and how does the university support them throughout their academic journeys? 
JT: Buffalo State offers a welcoming campus community where students from diverse backgrounds can develop meaningful relationships and access opportunities that support their academic, personal, and professional development. Programs such as EOP, ACE, and Roar 2 Success, along with academic advising, tutoring, and wellness services, provide important support throughout students’ college journeys. Beyond academics, students can participate in undergraduate research, internships, student organizations, and leadership experiences that help them explore their interests and prepare for their futures. I especially encourage students to take advantage of career development resources, connect with faculty, and pursue experiential learning opportunities that allow them to apply what they’re learning in meaningful ways. One of the benefits of Buffalo State is the opportunity to build relationships with people who can help students navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and make informed decisions. I encourage students to explore these resources early and take an active role in shaping their college experience.

BSU: What do you hope students take away from First-Gen Week?
JT: I hope students leave First-Generation Week with a greater sense of pride in their journeys and an appreciation for the experiences that have shaped who they are. I want them to recognize that being first-generation is not a limitation, but an important part of their identity and the perspective they bring to our community. I also hope the week creates opportunities for students to connect with one another, share their stories, and recognize that they are part of a larger national community of first-generation scholars and graduates. Beyond the celebration, I hope students discover resources, relationships, or opportunities that will continue to support them throughout their time at Buffalo State. Most importantly, I hope they leave feeling encouraged to take the next step in their journey, whatever that may look like for them.

Photo by Buffalo State Marketing & Communications.