Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

For students at the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, “first-generation” isn’t just a designation — it’s a badge of honor, a source of profound responsibility, and for many, a story of sacrifice.

At UH Hilo’s first annual Thrive and Shine, stories of resilience and hope filled the Campus Center as first-generation college students, faculty, and staff gathered to honor their journeys. The celebration aimed to build a network of support and proudly showcase those who are forging new paths for their families.

Students pose for a photo after signing the “I am First” banner at Thrive and Shine

The first-gen designation carries specific meaning: even if your sibling attended college, you’re still a first-generation college student if your parents did not complete a four-year college degree. It’s a distinction that applies to over half of U.S. undergraduates today.

“It’s really important to us to highlight them,” said Shayna Fuerte, Executive Director of TRIO Programs. “They are breaking barriers and creating opportunities for themselves and generations after them.”

The driving force behind the inaugural event was Leiya Margareth Torrano, a senior majoring in Health Care Management with a minor in Philosophy and a Pre-Law certificate, who will be the first in her family to graduate from college next spring. Born and raised in Honokaʻa, she carries her family’s hopes and her younger sister’s dreams into her plans for the future.

“My goal is to build a first-generation network,” she explained.

Following Thrive and Shine, the next step in her capstone project is to create a college-prep program for high school students to debunk the myths she sees as holding many back. “Hopefully by the end of the program, they get to tour our campus, learn about resources, and connect with students here.”

According to the campus-wide survey Torrano distributed as part of her capstone, several misconceptions contribute to hesitancy about pursuing higher education. Many believe they will be in debt forever, that scholarships are too challenging to obtain, or that they must have a clear career path defined before starting. These myths can create unnecessary anxiety and hinder academic progress.

“That's why we have our programs — to provide that network of support because they don't necessarily have family members or friends who’ve been through the process and can guide them through the obstacles,” Fuerte said.

Yet, these students share more than their struggles. They are united in their experience by a powerful trait: perseverance.

Paola Magana, a fifth-year geography major from Kona, shared how significant her degree is. “My parents didn’t even go to high school. I’m glad I got to go further than they did and accomplish the dreams they had for themselves.”

Kealohilani Kama-Hosea, a double major in Hawaiian Studies and Anthropology, credits her single mom’s sacrifice and support for the opportunities she has had. “To me, being first-gen means a lot of responsibility, but it’s gonna pay off,” described the Ke Kula ʻo Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu graduate. “I’m gonna make sure it was all worth it.”

First-generation students define success in their own ways. For Nalani Blankenship, a Waiākea graduate who was born and raised in Hilo, it’s simple. “It means I’m trying my best and taking advantage of all the chances I can get.” For Molly Rodgers, a first year student from England, it’s about expanding her world. “With a degree, it allows you to do a lot more things.”

Kinesiology majors Nalani Blankenship (on the left) and Molly Rodgers are all smiles at Thrive and Shine

One survey participant boldly summed up her wishes for other first-gen students, “Take risks and don’t be afraid to strive for what you want!”

Here at UH Hilo, it’s that attitude that is transforming families and communities, one first-generation college student at a time.