How First-Gen Students Can Thrive in Business

Reflections from the 2025 First Generation Student Career & Leadership Experience
By Monica Díaz | April 21, 2025

This past weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to join an inspiring community of students and professionals at the 2025 First Generation Student Career & Leadership Experience. Held at Florida International University’s Biscayne Bay Campus, this gathering brought together over 320 first-gen students from more than 40 colleges and universities across the country.

As someone who was once a first-generation college student herself, being in that room felt personal. Full circle. I was reminded of my own journey—the questions, the doubt, the hustle—and I felt an immense sense of pride to witness this new generation of leaders boldly stepping into their futures.

I was honored to speak on a panel called “Keys to Thriving as a First Generation Student in Business, Marketing, and Human Resources” alongside brilliant leaders like Christine Barney, James Oyola, and Rashad D. Thomas. We shared real talk—about work, growth, and what it truly means to succeed when you’re often the first.

On my part, I spoke not just as a coach or consultant, but as someone who has lived many chapters: from corporate executive to entrepreneur, from mentee to mentor. I offered stories, not soundbites. And if I could distill a few themes from what I shared, they would be these:

Take charge of your career early. Managing your money and your mindset go hand in hand. Invest in tools that help you grow—an executive coach, a financial advisor, a mentor who believes in you.

When assessing emerging talent, I look for three things: adaptability, confidence (or the willingness to build it), and the ability to communicate with clarity and care. These aren’t just “skills”—they’re signals that someone is ready.

The job market can be tough. But I’ve seen that curiosity, professionalism, and the courage to ask for help can take you further than any polished resume.

And more than anything—own your story. That’s your edge. There’s no formula for this journey. Just your willingness to keep learning, growing, and showing up.

What First-Gen Students Can Do Right Now:

• Start building your network with intention—relationships are key.
• Get comfortable with being uncomfortable—growth happens there.
• Treat internships, projects, and jobs as real-world classrooms.

What Hiring Leaders Should Remember:

• First-gen talent brings resilience, resourcefulness, and drive.
• Potential can’t always be measured by GPA or pedigree—look deeper.
• Representation matters. When students see leaders who reflect their journey, it opens doors.

One moment that stayed with me was when I spoke about a mentor who once saw greatness in me—long before I could see it myself. That kind of belief can change everything. If you find someone who’s willing to invest in you, show up fully. Be prepared. Honor their time.

To every student I met: thank you. You reminded me why I do this work. Your energy, your resilience, your bold questions—they stayed with me.

Whether you’re still figuring things out or already chasing your next big goal, know this: you belong. And you’re not alone.

Let’s keep rising—together.

About Monica Díaz
Monica is a globally recognized Career Coach, HR/DEI Consultant, and Leadership Speaker with over 30 years of experience supporting Fortune 500 companies and mission-driven organizations. Her upcoming book, Belonging – The Power of Being ME in the WE will be published by the end of 2025.Stay Connected
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